Copa Rushmori 29 (XXIX) - Everything Thread

by **Valladares** » Fri Feb 02, 2018 5:43 pm

Copa Rushmori XXIX - Everything Thread

Sign-Ups/OOC Thread • Bid

Ladies, gentlemen, and other sentient beings from Rushmore and the rest of the multiverse, the Confederación Rushmori de Fútbol (CRF) and the Valladar Football Association (VFA) would like to welcome you all to the twenty-ninth edition of Rushmore's premier football tournament, the Copa Rushmori, with twenty-four nations from all over the region will be battling it out for regional supremacy in Valladares.

The competition's 24 entrants will be split into 6 groups of 4, with each team playing the others in its group once. The 6 group winners plus the 6 second-placed teams and the 4 best third-placed teams will advance to the round of 16, where we will begin the competition's knockout rounds. The first RP cutoff of the competition is tentatively set to be on Wednesday, February 7th at around 02:30 UTC (Tuesday 6th, 21:30 EST), and subsequent matchdays will be scorinated every other day thereon.

Groups:

Group A
Valladares (3)
Thibaea (UR)
Sameba (7)
Sargossa (18)

Group B
Pasarga (2)
Mytanar Region (UR)
Northern Natanians (27)
Savojarna (9)

Group C
Nephara (5)
Darmen (16)
Olastor (12)
Philamer Isle (UR)

Group D
Eastfield Lodge (4)
Alitaba (UR)
Yuezhou (23)
The Askari Union (13)

Group E
Eura (1)
Cassadaigua (21)
Dunnes (UR)
Pridnestrovia (11)

Group F
Taeshan (6)
New Gelderland (UR)
Ceni (8)
Sarrbia (22)

Schedule (All days and times are UTC):

Group Stage:

MD1 - Wednesday February 7th (1v4, 2v3)
MD2 - Friday February 9th (4v3, 1v2)
MD3 - Sunday February 11th (2v4, 3v1)

Round of 16: Tuesday February 13th

R1: 1E v 2D
R2: 1C v 3A/B/F
R3: 2B v 2F
R4: 1A v 3C/D/E
R5: 2A v 2C
R6: 1D v 3B/E/F
R7: 1B v 3A/C/D
R8: 1F v 2E

Quarterfinals: Thursday February 15th*

Q1: R1 v R2, Q2: R3 v R4
Q3: R5 v R6, Q4: R7 v R8

Semifinals: Saturday February 17th

SF1: Q1 v Q2, SF2: Q3 v Q4

Third Place Playoff: Sunday February 18th (LSF1 v LSF2)

Final: Monday February 19th (WSF1 v WSF2)

Cutoff window time: 02:30-03:30 UTC (* 03:00-04:00 UTC only for Quarterfinal round)

by **Valladares** » Fri Feb 02, 2018 5:43 pm

Welcome to Valladares!

Map of Valladares (Mainland)

The United Kingdom of Valladares is proud to welcome 24 nations from all over the region to a new edition of the Copa Rushmori, which is coming to this fair land located in eastern Rushmore for the third time. We hope that all delegations will enjoy their stay in this country.

Overview

Valladares is a country located in central-eastern Rushmore, comprised of two bigger chunks of territory and the City of Junín, which is an enclave on the shores of the Endemien Ocean, allowing the country's "mainland" to have access to the sea through the Fontvielle-Junín railway. The "two bigger chunks of territory" are the Mainland, located in the Terranea continent, where the capital city Metropolis, as well as the country's most important cities and most of the country's population are located; and the Westlands, which is a state located in the Terramidia continent.

The land that is now the Valladar mainland was inhabited for millennia by various Aboriginal peoples, among them the Valladar and Astine peoples, who established their city-states on opposite banks of the Danubio river. Those tribes were decimated by both diseases and colonization processes carried on by Europeans, mainly Spaniard, Portuguese, and French colonizers and missionaries, who also introduced Catholicism into what would became the Valladar mainland. "Puerto Esperanza", nowadays called Westporte, is recognized as the oldest city in the country, having been founded in 1580 by Spaniard explorer Sebastian Cortés. Beginning in the late 16th century, Spanish colonial expeditions explored and settled the eastern region of the Great Inland Sea and the lower course of the Danubio river, establishing the Colony of Río Danubio in 1654, splitting the region into the colonies of Valladares, Iliria, Eterna, and Valle Danubio and starting a 227-year colonial rule that ended with the Second Valladar Uprising and the subsequent War of Independence, and followed up by the Declaration of Independence, signed on October 8, 1881. The Valladar federation was later strengthened by reunification with the Iliria (current Chiquito and Foix states) and Eterna states during the years 1890-1900. Eventually, the reunification of the Valladar states was achieved after the conquest of the city of Tallinberg (now Carloburgo) on March 17, 1909 and the proclamation of the Royal Constitution on July 1, 1910.

Valladares is a federal parliamentary democracy and a constitutional monarchy, with Kings Marcus and Cyrus as its heads of state. Four languages are official at the federal level as a result of the colonization processes underwent by European powers during the Colony era. Its advanced economy is one of the largest in Rushmore, built on and mainly relying upon its abundant natural resources and well-developed trade networks. Valladares's recent opening to its regional neighbours (mainly on the sports and diplomacy fields) has helped the nation establish cordial relationships with most of them and has had a significant impact on its economy and culture, although the latter can be questioned due to the fact that its natural social heterogeneity, which was forged through history, makes it difficult to establish a "unified" Valladar culture.

Geography

The geography of Valladares is characterized by its two different regions with their unique characteristics: the Mainland and the Westlands. The former is dominated by the Ituyán mountain range which runs from south to north passing through the nation and separating the country from the rest of the Terranea continent. Valladares's highest mountain, Monte Blanco, is located in this mountain range, near Eterna City and rises up to 4,789 meters above sea level. The Danubio river flows through the nation from south to north, first going through the eastern plains and the capital city Metropolis, then turning westwards and passing through the Ituyán range between the cities of Angostura and Araracuara in the east and Maldonado and Columbus to the west, in the region known as the Cañón del Danubio (Danube Canyon) and then the Danubio valley in the Eterna, Antioquia, and Canalave states. The Ituyán mountains contain some of the country's biggest urban centres: Carloburgo, Eterna City, Campo Grande, and Pradera, however, the capital city Metropolis, along with the entire Foix state and its capital Bezieres and the entire Canalave state and the cities of Canalave and Westporte are located in the plains to the east and the Danubio valley to the west. Peaks in the Ituyán mountain range in the southern half of Valladares (Mountbatten state) reach 3,200 meters above sea level (10,498 feet), while in the northern half (Chiquito and Eterna states) they exceed 4,700 meters above sea level (15,419 feet).

On the other half, the Westlands region is generally hilly to the south and west with a coastal region to the north and east, where the capital city of Edmonton is located. The tallest peak of this region is Mount Rockefeller, which reaches a height of 2,276 meters above sea level (7,467 feet). The population in this region is concentrated in the coastal plains, with 55% of the state's inhabitants living in the cities of Edmonton and Adelaide.

Travel Advice

So, are you still interested in travelling to this nation to support your national team in the Copa Rushmori? Well, if the answer to this question is "yes", then here we have some tips for you to make sure your stay will not be an unpleasant experience for both you and us:

1. Fans will only need to show their ticket for a Copa match (as well as their passport) in order to enter the nation. Tickets for group stage matches being played in Valladares will be sold and handed over by the competing football associations, tickets from the round of 16 onwards will only be sold and handed over in Valladares.

2. As the official name of the nation might suggest, Valladares is a United Kingdom, with (currently) two Kings as its Heads of State who are very beloved throughout the country and also seen as a symbol of unity by all citizens irrespective of state and/or mother tongue. Therefore, it is strictly forbidden to insult, slander, defame them and/or any member of the Royal Family, create and/or spread any and all kinds of rumour involving both them and the Royal Family and/or orchestrate and perform any and all kinds of attack against them and/or any member of the Royal Family. Should you are found doing any of the actions mentioned above, you will be arrested, charged with lese majeste, and taken to a trial with the Kings themselves as judges, who shall decide an appropriate punishment as they please. This punishment also includes deportation if the offender is a foreigner, of course.

3. The most spoken language by Valladars during daily life is Spanish, though English will be the main language spoken in parts of the Mountbatten and Eterna states, as well as French in the Foix state, and Portuguese in the Chiquito state. While locals will definitely appreciate that you make an effort to make yourself be understood when seeking help, they will not appreciate at all to see foreigners "butchering" their native languages. So our advice is this one: If you are not fluent in Spanish, French, or Portuguese, do not try to speak any of those languages: that will do nothing but irritate your interlocutor.

4. The rights of freedom of speech and freedom of assembly are fully guaranteed as long as you do not try to abuse of them by doing any of the things described in the second recommendation.

5. Smoking is forbidden at all public places (including stadiums). However, hotels are already implementing "smoking zones" where you can smoke at pleasure alongside other smokers without disrupting the lungs of non-smokers.

6. Valladares uses the Point (PT$) as its national currency, it is one of Rushmore's strongest currencies with a current exchange rate of NS$1.68 to 1 Point. The Point is divided into 100 Centavos. We strongly advise that you exchange your local currency into Points or NSD as soon as you enter the country, because most shops and businesses will be reluctant to accept other currency than the Point or the Standard Dollar. Credit card holders should not have much of a problem, though.

7. National Parks in Valladares are very well preserved thanks to a strong environmental legislation, and as a result, they are visited by people from all over the multiverse who marvel at the beauty of the landscapes and the variety of wildlife found there. In order to keep their natural beauty intact, it is strictly forbidden to: camp on open field, lit bonfires, litter the ground, and extract any natural resource from them (whether plants or animals). Tours will always be led by two people: the park guide and a member of the Environmental Police, who will be watching over the group and making sure that none of these prohibitions is breached. Those who fail to comply with the rules will be sent to jail for 3 days, fined, and forced to make some "compensatory work" (such as planting trees or cleaning up streets) before they leave the country.

8. Fan groups will be allowed to bring with them their drums and flags to the twelve stadiums that are going to host matches in the competition. However, flares are not allowed because of safety regulations. In addition to this, the National Police will reserve to itself the right to arrest (and eventually deport) any and all troublemakers within the foreign fanbases. The following events will generate the Police to take action: provoking and/or offensive chants towards other fanbases or groups of people, fights between fanbases from different nations on streets and other public places, insulting banners, etc.

9. The City of Junín is a closed city and as such, it is off-limits to foreigners.

Moving Around

Travelling into Valladares is usually done by airplane, though Juninese citizens can also get into the "mainland" via rail. The main gateway for foreigners entering the nation is Stanford-Miller International Airport, located in the town of Villena, in the District of Metropolis. From there, you can book flights to most of the main cities in the nation (including the Westlands), and four of the other five venues for the competition (except Bezieres, which is a short train or car ride from the national capital, usually lasting no more than an hour). Access to the Westlands from the Valladar mainland is possible through Charles V International Airport in Edmonton and Adelaide's Flanders Airport, both with daily flights from Metropolis served by ValAir, Western Airlines, and other minor carriers. Valladares's railroad network is (even though it is mainly concentrated on the mainland) one of Rushmore's most advanced, extensive, and best maintained networks, linking virtually every important city and town in the nation and offering a fast and quality service, which is served by high-speed trains (or TAVs, as they are known locally). National highways are also very well maintained and also link the most important cities, allowing automobiles to move easily from city to city, while most state capitals also have their own mass transportation systems, Metropolis being an example with commuter trains linking it to its neighbouring cities and towns, an underground metro, and a BRT (bus rapid transit) system.

Venues and Stadiums

Six venues in the same number of cities were selected by the Valladar Football Association to host the tournament, which have already been refurbished and have already served as hosts of WCC tournaments. All of the host stadiums have state-of-the-art facilities and other modern amenities to improve fan experience and make this competition an enjoyable experience for players and fans alike, while the host cities have also prepared their most famous tourist attractions in order to leave a mark on every fan coming to this nation.

Metropolis
The city of Metropolis is the national capital of Valladares, being located at the confluence of the Danubio and Chorrillo rivers. Along with the suburbs of Cerro, Villena, Swangard, Servette, and Ciudad Piar, it is part of the District of Metropolis, one of the eight Valladar states, although the Greater Metropolis conurbation includes the entire District of Metropolis as well as parts of the Mountbatten, Foix, and Chiquito states. Being the federal capital of Valladares, it hosts the executive (Prime Minister and Cabinet), legislative (Royal Parliament and National Assembly), and judicial (High Court) powers as well as several important national companies. Football is the main sport in the city, as Metropolis is home to 11 professional teams, with the most important ones being Metropolis Alligators, Marinos Metropolis, Nacional, and Bohemians Metropolis (all of them playing in the Valladar Liga-1, the main professional football league in the nation). However, not everything in the city is sport, as the city also houses several famous art galleries, museums, theathers and monuments. The Metropolis Zoo, located in the south of the city, in the Córdoba neighbourhood, is also a recommended place to visit.

Stadium: Alexander I National Stadium (95,021 seats)

Alexander I National Stadium, located in the town of Swangard, just a short twenty-five minute commuter train ride from the City downtown, is the national stadium of Valladares, and venue for most matches of the Valladar national football team. It has hosted the nineteenth and sixtieth Champions Cup' finals, as well as the tenth Copa Rushmori final, the 61st Cup of Harmony final, the 74th World Cup final, and also hosts the Kings' Shield final, home matches for Metropolis Alligators, and the final playoffs for Liga-2 and Liga-3 every year. This stadium underwent a major upgrade in preparation for the 61st Cup of Harmony, its capacity was increased from 85,000 to 95,021 with the construction of a second tier on both ends, its roof was also renewed with a lighter material, and its press booths and VIP boxes were also enlarged. Wi-Fi connectability was also enabled for all seats in the stadium in order to improve fan experience to an unprecedented level in Valladares. This stadium will host the following 12 matches:

GS MD1: Valladares vs. Sargossa | Thibaea vs. Sameba
GS MD2: Sargossa vs. Sameba | Valladares vs. Thibaea
GS MD3: Mytanar Region vs. Savojarna (Group B) | Sameba vs. Valladares (Group A)
Ro16: 2A vs. 2C | 1A vs. 3C/D/E
QF: R3 vs. R4
SF: Q1 vs. Q2
3PPO
Final

Carloburgo
Located at an altitude of 2,650 metres above sea level, Carloburgo is the second largest city of Valladares, located at the confluence of the Tallin and Ullich rivers in the southwest of the nation. It is the cultural, social, economic, and politic centre of Western Valladares. The capital of Mountbatten state is home to the largest foreign community in the nation, and 38% of the city inhabitants are from an inmigrant background. Carloburgo is a city with a rich history and an interesting mixture of architectural styles, with old buildings dominating the city downtown and modern buildings in the north and surrounding the city downtown. The city is home to five professional football teams, with Tannenberg FC as the most important and worldwide renowned of all of them. This bustling city is also the industrial hub of Western Valladares, and the gateway to the Valladar Southern Alps, an interesting place to visit.

Stadium: White Meadow Arena (69,780 seats)

Located in the outskirts of the city of Carloburgo, 20 minutes away from the city centre, this stadium is one of the newest in the nation, having been inaugurated by Tannenberg FC at the start of the tenth Valladar Liga-1 season. The "Bowl", as the stadium is nicknamed by TFC fans, is fully equipped and able to increase its capacity in exceptional cases thanks to retractable stands on the ends which can bring the spectators (specially those ones in the Knights End, home to Tannenberg's hardcore fans) closer to the pitch, greatly improving the game's atmosphere and fan experience. White Meadow Arena seats 69,780 people and will host six group stage matches, two Round of 16 games, one quarterfinal as well as one of the semifinals:

GS MD1: Nephara vs. Philamer Isle | Darmen vs. Olastor
GS MD2: Philamer Isle vs. Olastor | Nephara vs. Darmen
GS MD3: Alitaba vs. The Askari Union (Group D) | Olastor vs. Nephara (Group C)
Ro16: 1C vs. 3A/B/F | 2B vs. 2F
QF: R1 vs. R2
SF: Q3 vs. Q4

Eterna City
Eterna City, the third most important city in the nation, is located in the north of the nation, on the northern bank of the Eterna river at an altitude of 2,680 metres above sea level. Known as the "City of Sunflowers", and due to its closure to Canalave, the most important port in Valladares, the capital of the Eterna state is one of the most important economic and sporting hubs of the nation, as it is the home for the basketball and volleyball national teams, and two professional football teams: Eterna Stars and Eterna Celtic, with the Stars as the most important one, having won two national championships. This city is also known for having a great nightlife, and also for being the place where the biggest city park in the nation, the Northern Park, is located. Also, visitors cannot leave without a visit to Monte Blanco, the highest mountain in the nation, and always present in any picture taken at the city.

Stadium: Alain Tramontin Stadium (60,207 seats)

One of the oldest football stadia still in use in the nation, the Alain Tramontin Stadium is located in the Villeneuve district, in the south of Eterna City. It was opened in 1966, with a capacity of 55,000 and the first and sole tenants of the ground have been the Eterna Stars, who have played at this stadium since their foundation in 1969. It has been the subject of at least three renovations to prevent its deterioration, with the last one being the most radical of all: for the Cup of Harmony, the stadium's capacity was increased to 60,000 seats, thanks to the change in the stadium's configuration from a bowl-shaped one to a rectangular-shaped one, which is meant to bring the stands closer to the pitch, hence improving fan experience. This also implied that the stadium's athletic track had to be removed in order to make way for the new seats. The locker rooms for both teams and referees were refurbished, as well as the press conference room, and a second tier of seats as well as a retractable roof were introduced. All of these improvements were intended to keep this stadium as the most modern and important one in the Eterna state. As it is surrounded by houses, the sale of alcohol and the presence of away ultras near the stadium are restricted by the local authorities. Alain Tramontin Stadium will host the following CR matches:

GS MD1: Eura vs. Pridnestrovia | Cassadaigua vs. Dunnes
GS MD2: Pridnestrovia vs. Dunnes | Eura vs. Cassadaigua
GS MD3: New Gelderland vs. Sarrbia (Group F) | Dunnes vs. Eura (Group E)
Ro16: 1E vs. 2D
QF: R5 vs. R6

Campo Grande
Campo Grande is Valladares' fourth largest city, located in the Ituyán mountain range at a height of 2,750 meters above sea level, and is the capital of the Chiquito state. The "Garden City", as it is known because of its abundance of gardens and green spaces, is also known for hosting to the "Flower Festival" during the month of August, where tourists may take part in the colorful parades and marvel at the different floral species being exhibited all over the city. Campograndenses are also football lovers, most of them supporting Liga-1 side Real Campo Grande, with Liga-3 outfits EC Comercial and Corumbá EC from the neighbouring town of Corumbá also attracting some preferences among football fans in the city. They're also known for being very demanding fans, and they will always expect the teams coming to the Estádio Estadual to offer some delightful football.

Stadium: Estádio Estadual Armando Bozzelli (58,259 seats)

The Estádio Estadual Armando Bozzelli is the football mecca in the Chiquito state, and usually hosts matches for Real Campo Grande, football club currently competing in the top tier of Valladar football, the Liga-1. This stadium, located in the north of the city next to the Campo Grande-Eterna City highway, was also upgraded for the Cup of Harmony, having been expanded from 50,000 seats to 58,259 seats by eliminating the athletic track and bringing the stands closer to the pitch, thus improving the atmosphere and fan experience at the stadium. The roof, locker rooms, press conference rooms, VIP boxes, and press booths were also renovated in preparation for the tournament. This stadium will host 7 matches: 6 group stage games and a Round of 16 match:

GS MD1: Taeshan vs. Sarrbia | New Gelderland vs. Ceni
GS MD2: Sarrbia vs. Ceni | Taeshan vs. New Gelderland
GS MD3: Cassadaigua vs. Pridnestrovia (Group E) | Ceni vs. Taeshan (Group F)
Ro16: 1F vs. 2E

Bezieres
The capital of the Foix state is located just hour and a half away from Metropolis by car, and it is known for being the "French capital" of Valladares as well as for its Carnival which is held during the four previous days to Ash Wednesday. Bezieres, which lies on the northern bank of the Rivière de Foix, is characterized by its modern buildings and its wide and forested avenues, and it's also the gateway to the Foixien Milky Way: a name for a group of towns to the south of the city which are known throughout the country for being the core of production of milk and other dairy products. As for football, Bezieres is another football-mad city, being the city from where one of Valladares' most decorated clubs (AS Bezieres) hails, as well as their rivals Étoile Verte and other Liga Nacional, Liga Regional, and Division d'Honneur Foixien (fourth, fifth, and sixth tier) teams.

Stadium: Stade de Foix-Jules Picot (63,150 seats)

Copa Rushmori matches in this city will be played at the Stade de Foix-Jules Picot, owned by one of the most important football clubs in the country (AS Bezieres) and able to seat 63,150 people. This stadium is considered as one of the most modern stadiums in the country, being equipped with a retractable roof, four LED jumbotrons which hang under the structure from which the roof is unfolded, underground parking, state-of-the-art VIP boxes, and a system for façade lighting which was inaugurated for the 61st Cup of Harmony. Eight matches are going to be played at the Bezierien stadium, one of those being a round of 16 match and another one a quarterfinal match:

GS MD1: Pasarga vs. Savojarna | Mytanar Region vs. Northern Natanians
GS MD2: Savojarna vs. Northern Natanians | Pasarga vs. Mytanar Region
GS MD3: Thibaea vs. Sargossa (Group A) | Northern Natanians vs. Pasarga (Group B)
Ro16: 1B vs. 3A/C/D
QF: R7 vs. R8

Pradera
Pradera is the capital city of the Antioquia state (west of Valladares' mainland) and the eighth most populous city in Valladares. This city, located on the northern bank of the Parce river and nested in the Western Mountains, is known for its temperate climate and for its proximity to the town of Talamonte, which houses Valladares' main coal mines and is located some kilometres to the west. Pradera is, after Carloburgo, the second major cultural and economic hub in the western Valladar mainland, and like Fontvielle in the Foix state, has a reputation as a working class city. Pradera is home to Pradera FC, who have been Valladar champions once and have been one of the most consistent sides in the Valladar Liga-1 in recent times, contending for qualification for UICA tournaments every season.

Stadium: Estadio de la Montaña (43,174 seats)

The Estadio de la Montaña is one of Valladares' newest stadiums, completed in time for the 60th Baptism of Fire. Located on the banks of the Parce river, and owned by local club Pradera FC, it was a much-needed home for the "Verdiblancos", who until the stadium's completion had been playing in the state-owned Estadio Gobernador Villa, with capacity for 25,572 people and rendered too small for Pradera's growing fanbase with no possibilities of expansion due to its location in a residential sector. This shiny new stadium has a capacity for 43,174 people and became the first stadium in Valladares to use solar power as its roof and facade were equipped with a photovoltaic system. In addition to this, it has also got two executive towers in the stadium's western side. These towers offer a restaurant and offices for the club, its main supporters group, and other local companies. It will host the following matches in this competition:

GS MD1: Eastfield Lodge vs. The Askari Union | Alitaba vs. Yuezhou
GS MD2: The Askari Union vs. Yuezhou | Eastfield Lodge vs. Alitaba
GS MD3: Darmen vs. Philamer Isle (Group C) | Yuezhou vs. Eastfield Lodge (Group D)
Ro16: 1D vs. 3B/E/F

by **Valladares** » Fri Feb 02, 2018 5:43 pm

THE VALLADAR FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION

OFFICIAL ROSTER FOR THE 29^TH COPA RUSHMORI

Coaching Staff:

Head coach: Paulo Oliveira
Assistant coach: Sergio Acevedo
Goalkeeping coach: Martin Legendre
Fitness coach: Ramón Estiaguirre
Team doctor: Jacques Pelletier
Physiotherapist: Dante Palazzi
Video analyst: Lorenzo Coombs

Squad:

GOALKEEPERS
1. Franco Espinel - GK - 35 -

Marinos Metropolis (Captain)
12. Alan Cross - GK - 31 -

Eterna Stars
23. Paulo Gaviria - GK - 29 -

Nacional

DEFENDERS
2. Frédéric Pedretti - RB - 28 -

Fontvielle Impact
13. Paul Mayard - RB - 29 -

AS Bezieres
3. Charles dos Santos - CB - 32 -

AS Bezieres (Vice-captain)
14. Martín Delgado - CB - 26 -

Nacional
4. Byron Holmes - CB - 28 -

Eterna Stars
15. Sebastián Ariza - CB - 28 -

Marinos Metropolis
5. Waldo - LB - 29 -

Eterna Stars
16. Frédéric Pavard - LB - 25 -

Olympique de Fontvielle

MIDFIELDERS
6. Fausto Carrillo - RM - 28 -

Metropolis Alligators
17. Edwin Navas - RM - 24 -

Slateport Bulls
7. Nick Mariner - CM - 25 -

Tannenberg FC
18. Benoît Sykes-Lussac - CM - 28 -

Fontvielle Impact
8. Christian O'Brien - LM - 21 -

Tannenberg FC
19. Ronald Vieira - LM - 27 -

Canalave Dragons
10. Ronald Mickel - AMC - 22 -

Nacional
21. Arley Barrios - AMC - 23 -

AS Bezieres

FORWARDS
9. Wilfried Baume - FW - 24 -

Fontvielle Impact
21. Andy Navarro - FW - 27 -

Nacional
11. Aymeric Fortin - FW - 20 -

Marinos Metropolis
22. Brayan Borja - FW - 21 -

Metropolis Alligators

Starting Lineup, Formation, and Tactics:

For his first challenge as Valladar gaffer, Paulo Oliveira has decided to test a traditional 4-3-1-2 formation, using only domestic-based players. Apart from trying to be a more balanced team by strenghtening the defensive zone with an extra man in the back, the strategy of play will largely remain the same as usual: La Nacional will always be looking to attack and retain ball possession for as long as possible, trying to score many goals in the shortest possible time and mounting an insurmountable lead for the second half of the match when players from both teams start showing signs of fatigue. This squad mostly relies on attacks through the wings and the moves by the right and left midfielders (who will be Fausto Carrillo and Liga-1 revelation Christian O'Brien this time) both in attack and in defense modes, with central midfielder Nick Mariner being able to retreat to the defensive line with ease whenever the team lose ball possession in order to form the usual line of 5 defenders, thus giving rival forwards a very hard time when trying to break through the Valladar defense. Playmaker Ronald Mickel will be in charge of providing support in offense to both the wingers and the 2 forwards, who are both young, speedy, and talented but most of all, dangerous: they can turn seemingly harmless crosses into goals, create chances and score goals out of nothing, and kill defenses with speed and lethal counterattacks.

Style Modifier: +2

Kits (Brought to you by Meski Sports):

First
Alternate
GK/Third

RP Permissions:

In the event my opponent RPs first, they may...
Choose my goalscorers YES
Godmod scoring events YES
RP injuries to my players NO without permission. I'll determine the severity if granted permission.
Godmod injuries to my players NO without permission.
Hand out yellow cards to my players YES
Hand out red cards to my players NO I'll determine whether my players are sent off or not.
Godmod other events YES only if they involve weather conditions.

Special requests:
1) Please no killings.
2) Try to be as realistic as possible, and last but no least...
3) Have fun.

by **Alitaba** » Fri Feb 02, 2018 11:30 pm

ALITABAN NATIONAL FOOTBALL TEAM
PAMBANSANG KOPONANG PAMPUTBOL NG ALITABA

"MANGGUGUBAT"
(The Foresters)

for the Copa Rushmori 29
para sa ikadalawamput-siyam na Kopang Pang-Rushmore

Manager: Duwa Lakangkisig (Male | 44)
Style Modifier: +3

Roster
Goalkeepers
1 | GK | Tulo Anituntabu | Male | 23
13 | GK | Aniceto Dimakopa | Male | 32
23 | GK | Anita Dinasapat | Female | 18

Defenders
2 | RB | Belita Dimacurut | Female | 17
3 | LB | Dina Dian Masalanta | Female | 23
4 | CB | Kulas Dimakulem | Male | 30 - CAPTAIN
5 | CB | 'Bathala' | Male | 21
12 | RB | Linda Mayari | Female | 31
16 | RCB | Rhoda Bakunawa | Female | 28
17 | LCB | Anito Lakandanum | Male | 27
19 | CB | Upat Pakawanennak | Male | 30

Midfielders
6 | CM | Merita Undang | Female | 24
7 | RM | Hunas Kalipayon | Male | 21
8 | CM | Hipolito Marajaw | Male | 28
11 | LM | Merlinda Dimasapak | Female | 26
14 | CM | Oslob Diak Maawatan | Male | 32
18 | LCM | Analia Diwata | Female | 19
20 | RCM | Tonio Dimakapitan | Male | 22
21 | CM | Meri Datu Simanuping | Female | 18

Forwards
9 | FW | Ferlita Wayang-wayang | Female | 23
10 | FW | Manolo Lamkapalit | Male | 27
15 | FW | Lito Dipatitinag | Male | 24
22 | FW | Hesika Dipakundangan | Female | 21

Kits
The kits are provided by Barrengeka of Astograth.

Home - red with blue horizontal strip; Away - black with yellow sash
Keeper kits will be provided by Libertad Sportswear of Sangti.

RP Permissions
Any godmodding is permissible, bar injuries and deaths.

by **Dunnes** » Sat Feb 03, 2018 8:06 am

Dunnes Football Federation
NATIONAL TEAM
-COPA RUSHMORI 29-

ABOUT

The Dunians the Copa Rushmori for the first time, after a disappointing WC and CoH. The first time a major roster shift has been made, the CR squad seeks to be energized by the slew of younger players called up. Dunnes plays a moderately aggressive 4-1-4-1 which relies on attacking midfielders to generate the offense. Bosun captains the team, as he has the most caps, and is widely considered to be Dunnes' most reputable player. The team is managed by Josue Ziegler, although if he fails to advance, he very well could be on his way out.

SCHEDULE

MD 1: Cassadaigua v. DUNNES (Alain Tramontin Stadium, Eterna City)
MD 2: Pridnestrovia v. DUNNES (Alain Tramontin Stadium, Eterna City)
MD 3: DUNNES v. Eura (Alain Tramontin Stadium, Eterna City)

ROSTER

Goalies

#01 Luc Preter/GK/Stevenson United
Age: 20 Caps: 22 Goals: 0
This will be the young keepers first tournament starting after taking over for long time national keeper Frank Reed at both Stevenson United and for The National Team. A tall keeper, who has a powerful leg, Preter’s problem is sometimes that he fumbles the ball after blocking the shot. Already the keeper for Dunnes no 1 club at age 20 though, so he shows great ambition.

#39 Louis Mont/GK/Dodge City
Age: 18 Caps: 0 Goals: 0
Third string keeper brought to gain experience for further competition. If he gets on the pitch Dunnes has bigger problems.

#99 Julian Gollem/GK/Armory FC
Age: 28 Caps: 3 Goals: 0
Gollem is disappointed to find himself as second string after Preter jumped him in the depth chart. A fine goalie, just not Dunnes’ finest.

Defenders

#02 Trevor Williams/CB/Dodge City
Age: 29 Caps: 38 Goals: 1
A long time staple in the Dunnes Football league, Williams is rebound for his tackling abilities. Ever the risk taker, Williams skills are complete as a defender, yet he is till working on becoming an aerial threat inside the box.

#03 Riley Petit/CB/Armory FC
Age: 28 Caps: 30 Goals: 1
Petit has come of a rough club campaign as captain of Armroy FC, as they failed to qualify for UICA competition for the third season running. Thus, he’s looking for something to prove in what could be his final campaign. As a defender he likes to sit back and control the pitch with his big leg.

#04 Louis Za/LB/Richland City
Age: 25 Caps: 22 Goals: 1
Za is a speedier defender, sometimes acting as a wing back when brought on to the pitch. Expected to be one of the most used substitutes for Dunnes this campaign, as he can be brought on to defend and still provide an offensive mindset.

#12 Thomas Lai/LB/Stevenson United
Age: 31 Caps: 44 Goals: 2
The swan song for the long time defender. One of the most consistent players in the country, and looking to provide a calming influence on the younger players.

#27 Aidan Lebouw/RB/Stevenson United
Age: 20 Caps: 23 Goals: 2
Noted for his tackling and for seeing passing lanes that would be invisible to others. Could be a future captain, as he provides great courage and bravado to the squad.

#14 Cass Royle/CB/McKenzie FC
Age: 20 Caps: 0 Goals: 0
A breakout player in season 3 of the DFL, Coyle will make his international Debut at the Copa. A tall stronger defender, he won't start, but could feature in games, especially if Dunnes gets a lead.

Midfielders

#05 Chris Crump/CM/Dodge City (VC)
Age: 30 Caps: 40 Goals: 6
One of the old guard, this might be Crump’s last campaign for his country. A strong midfielder he can tackle and pass with the best of them. However, his shooting needs work.

#07 Darren Tabaz/RM/AC Holmenkollen (COS)
Age: 21 Caps: 30 Goals: 6
After seeing his club side be surprisingly relegated, Tabaz is looking to put that all behind him as he seeks a more attacking role as a midfielder. A speedy midfielder who can cross and attack. Defense needs work but will be expected to contribute to the scoresheet.

#08 Benjamin Jennings/CAM/Stevenson United (VC)
Age: 21 Caps: 29 Goals: 7
The next big thing in Dunian Football. Jennings has always been at the highest levels ind Dunnes at the u17, u19, and u21 levels, and has now finally arrived at the elite team. Jennings possses speed, agility, and a raw power about him that makes him a true threat. MVP of the DFL last season, and scored winning goal in the Cup Final.

#10 Bosun/CDM/Stevenson United (C)
Age: 27 Caps: 46 Goals: 10
Bosun is the field commander of the Dunnes national team. Constantly adjusting on the pitch, Bosun can make decisive tackles and go aerial inside the box all in the span of minutes.

#16 Xavier Pulson/CM/Armory FC
Age: 31 Caps: 29 Goals: 4
Another pick for expirence instead of relative form. An Armory hall of fame player though, and his exclusion would have annoyed a lot of fans.

#19 Martin Lucey/RM/Askatasuna FC (BNJ)
Age: 19 Caps: 10 Goals: 1
One of the rising stars in Dunnes, and looking to make his name known this campaign.

#40 Ward Peak/RM/Willamette Town FC
Age: 21 Caps: 0 Goals: 0
One of the star players for the team that almost won the Championship in the DFL, Peak has been rewarded with a spot on the team. However, if he wants to keep it he'll have to impress the coaching staff, and his teammates, as he replaces some of Dunnes' biggest stars.

#24 Brian James/LM/Richland City
Age: 22 Caps: 8 Goals: 1
Should be one of Dunnes' top subs after a stellar club year. Quick with the ball, and has a sharp football IQ.

#15 Cole Avery/CM/Beaches FC
Age: 19 Caps: 0 Goals: 0
Another one of the breakout players in the DFL, Avery could be one of the best of the newest generation of Dunian footballers. Needs to maintain focus on the CR however, as he is the subject of transfer rumors.

Forwards

#06 Julian Turner/LW/Hoima Warriors (BNJ)
Age: 25 Caps: 2 Goals: 0
After a promising first season for Hoima, Turner once again has to prove himself to Dunian fans. Turner is a speed demon, but other than an equisite skill set, he can’t do much. Could be brought on as an attacker frequently.

#09 Dave Botler/ST/Dodge City
Age: 25 Caps: 38 Goals: 12
Botler has been Dunnes’ true striker for quite some time now. Golden boot in the DFL this year, and one of the best footballers in Dunian history. A player to watch in the Copa.

#11 Atsushi Ryu/LW/Stevenson United
Age: 26 Caps: 45 Goals: 12
A short winger who can double as a left midfielder. One of Dunnes free kick takers, Ryu is sometimes criticized for not getting back on defense as much as the fans would like. They forgive him however when he brings Home as many goals as he does.

#21 Marcus Brabson/ST/Stevenson United (Oljestaden IF/AUD)
Age: 17 Caps: 0 Goals: 1
The youngest player on the roster, he isn't expected to get much playing time, but management believes he needs the experience if he is to become the goal scorer of the future for Dunnes. Was part of a team that qualified for the Champions Cup from Audioslavia

Formation: 4-1-4-1
Style: +1.5
PK's: Botler, Ryu
Free Kicks: Jennings, Ryu
Corners: (L): Tabaz (R): Ryu
Preter
Lebouw-Williams-Petit-Za
Bosun
Tabaz-Crump-Jennings-Ryu
Botler
Likely Starters in Bold

STAFF

Head Coach: Josue Ziegler
Asst Coach: Frank Reed
Asst Coach: Tim Young
Asst Coach: James Hudson
Asst Coach: Michael Hargraves
Trainer: Cory Restep
Trainer: Sam Jowls
Trainer: Sara Leckbee
Physio: Jane Livera
Doctor: Dr. Mark Santana

KITS

RP

My opponent, if they RP first, may do the following:
Choose my goalscorers: Yes
Choose Scoring Events: Yes
Godmod Scoring Events: Yes
RP injuries to my players: Yes, non-serious
Godmod injuries to my players: No
Hand out Yellow cards to my players: Yes
Hand out Red cards to my players: No
Godmod Other Events: Yes, but please be realistic.

by **Ceni** » Sat Feb 03, 2018 12:16 pm

Goalkeepers
Ryan NAVIR - 30 - GK -

Eastern Stars
Juan Pablo MORALES - 27 - GK -

Brinemouth
Joshua KOSOKHAN - 23 - GK -

Tir Snake Strike

Defenders
Liam LORECHIAN - 28 - CB -

Phalanx AF
Ariana GURI-MONTAGUE - 23 - CB -

Olympic Nassau Bay
Miri WINDTIDE - 26 - CB -

Eastern Stars
Evan TURICH-ALBERTSON - 31 - LB -

Tir Snake Strike
Justin MORROGHANY - 31 - RB -

Royal Queenstown
Zarel SONTEBREN - 19 - CB -

Royal Queenstown

Midfielders
Allison SWAN - 29 - CM -

Crisisbless
Jasper VALARAN - 28 - CM -

Lammerton
Avi RENNING - 19 - CM -

Lexington Victory
Nova KYMERI - 23 - DM -

1860 Azoth
Sofia FALCÓN - 26 - CM -

Zoloroni City

Attacking Midfielders
Adrián del TORO - 27 - (R)AM -

Ramusok United
Marc-André ONASI - 25 - (L)AM -

Willox Street Pirates
Asher KOROMIN - 21 - (L)AM -

Cenial United
Xavi CALDERA - 23 - (R)AM -

Myrmidon
CHI-CHAN - 27 - AM -

Myrmidon

Strikers
Andrew ARROWSWORD - 26 - ST -

Real Azuris
Ben LORENNION - 26 - ST -

Golden Eagles
Iain CYN-PENZAG - 21 - ST -

Zoloroni City
Sascha FALKENRATH - 21 - ST -

Willox Street Pirates

Coaching Staff
Head Manager -

Luke Longstar
Assistant Manager -

Aran Xibalma
Defensive Coach -

Coben Jerfel
Offensive Coach -

Megara Keler
Goalkeeping Coach -

Sam Koresjor
Team Psychologist -

Anya Katherion

Team Formation

Style & RP Permissions
Style: +3.167
RP Permissions: I'm usually OK with anything, except NO KILLING (of players or fans or Cenian citizens in my country) or career-ending injuries. I decide severity of injuries.

Football History

Football in Ceni has only recently began to take off in popularity. Even though football has been present in Ceni for a good majority of the time that it has been settled, other sports, mainly tennis, badminton, and squash, held precedence in Cenian sporting life. For the most part, society gave football barely a passing glance as Ceni built its dominance in tennis. As the popularity of football grew in the last decade, however, pressure grew for the Cenian government to create a national team and send it to compete with the world's best. First, however, it would play in the 54th Baptism of Fire against other nations new to international football. In what was perhaps an ill omen for the rest of Ceni's international football campaigns, the Sarian, later to reach the final, crushed Ceni. In the group stage, Ceni barely managed one win before qualifying for the playoffs on goal difference, where they defeated Bonny in only their second win of the tournament, winning the opportunity to face eventual champion Buyan in the Round of 16. Although Ceni played valiantly, Buyan won, 1-0, in a not-surprising scoreline.

After its poor showing in the Baptism of Fire, Ceni embarked on its first World Cup qualification campaign. Not many people payed attention, and the team, led by Pablito Numede, managed to scrape up a few points before going home in ignominy. If one could say that Ceni's first qualification campaign was a three-year-old's small beach bucket, Ceni's second campaign barely made a drop in that bucket. The short description: nobody really cared. Sure, maybe some people were disappointed by the team's quite awful performance, but the general populace shrugged. In World Cup 69, Ceni finally started caring about its World Cup qualification prospects. Unsurprisingly, they weren't good. Although Ceni did manage to secure draws against Felix and Chiata, and a win against the then-twenty-ninth-ranked Super-Llamaland, it was not enough to make even a small dent in the large wall separating Ceni from World Cup qualification. In World Cup 70, Ceni had a real chance at qualifying. Despite falling 2-9 down to Audioslavia, Ceni notched a win against the second seed Neu Engollon to get a chance to defeat Electrum in a last-match day decider at home. Apparently the gods of fate were not smiling on the Cenian team, for the team fell by one goal, ending hopes of a playoff spot and World Cup qualification. Ceni's prospects had come so close, yet they were as far away as ever. At the Cup of Harmony, Ceni defeated Neu Engollon again, and shockingly defeated world number 9 and eventual champion Turori, ending a losing slide against the top 10. However, Ceni could not end its losing slide against Electrum, whom they faced in the Round of 16, losing for the third time in a row.

Ceni came back yet again for World Cup 71. It started disappointingly, with a loss to Zenic and a draw to the hitherto-unknown Octinstine courtesy of an Alliance for Cenian Future ploy. After that, Ceni won against second seed Barunia. On paper, the second half of qualification should have been good enough: four wins, one against top seed Blouman Empire, and three draws. Unfortunately, the draws were against Zenic at home and against the minnow Aynard, ranked in the three hundreds, and they sealed Ceni's doom. Soothsayers and gamblers who bet on Ceni's failure were the only ones celebrating. Without the disappointing draws to the bottom of the group, Ceni would have made the playoff spot; with five more points against Zenic, Ceni would have qualified outright. Alas, the gods of fate had conspired against Ceni once again, and Ceni would move to the Cup of Harmony at home. It performed decently. Despite draws to Kazamatsuri and Matthewsiana in the group stage, Ceni managed to advance to the Round of 16, where it defeated Darvale to reach the quarterfinals and Mizuyuki on penalties to reach the semifinals. It lost to Valanora, hardly surprising, and Saintland in the third place match, but Ceni finally had made somewhat of a mark in international football. It felt it was ready to qualify.

However, the dream did not come to fruition. In World Cup 72 qualification, the team lost to Barunia, a team it had beaten in World Cup 71, on the first match day and drew the 279th ranked Welcomzia. It then lost to the successor of Mizuyuki, Kirisaki, and drew with the 100th ranked side Vermark. Ceni's losses and disappointments kept coming, losing to minnows Emperor Pudu and Atrua. While the draws against Aynard and Octinstine were disturbing at best and heartbreaking at worst, Cenian supporters were crushed by their spell of bad luck during World Cup 72. A target for their fury was manager Osman Ibarra, who was sacked by the Cenian Football Federation, and replaced by Kirk Koromin, father of star Kel Koromin and manager of Tir Snake Strike, Ceni's best club. The switch seemed to have improved morale by a bit, as the team got revenge on Welcomzia, Vermark, and Atrua (all by the score of 3-2) and drew Kirisaki. However, it was not enough, as the pesky Emperor Pudu managed to defeat Ceni, and Ceni did not qualify, with a low take of 18 points. Surprisingly, however, Ceni improved one spot in the rankings, to forty-fourth. At this seemingly happy news, however, Cenian officials rued that they could have advanced into the top 40 with a better performance. It came to the Cup of Harmony facing an identity crisis and a crisis of leadership. However, its Cup of Harmony - a let's see our problems run for new coach Kirk Koromin - did not work out so well, with a loss to Barunia in the Group Stage as well as a heartbreaking penalty kick defeat to Chiata in the Round of 16. Ceni came to the World Cup cautiously optimistic and hoped that it would finally qualify on its seventh attempt.

Finally Ceni achieved their goal in World Cup 73 on their seventh attempt. Led by Jaime del Olmo and Kel Koromin, the team once again fell to the Opening Match Curse, suffering a defeat to Matthewsiania away, but rebounded after that, only losing once thereafter. Among notable games were the 6-6 draw with Free Republics and the 2-1 win away against HopNation. The World Cup also marked the debut of manager Kirk Koromin in World Cup qualifiers and the Cenial Halcyon National Stadium, at which the national team has never lost. The team was second in their group and drew Gregoryisgodistan, which they beat on a penalty shootout at home with a maxed-out crowd of cheering fans. Finally Ceni had made it to the World Cup, where they lost to regional rivals Eura and Cosumar before beating (guess who) Free Republics for their first ever World Cup win on their first try. Ceni directly qualified for World Cup 74, winning its group, including two wins over top seed Northern Sunrise Islands. They entered the World Cup hopeful, drawing with Apox before losing to hosts San Jose Guayabal. They were confident against Gregoryisgodistan, with a place in the round of 16 on the line. They knew they could win the match - yet they managed to lose somehow, one to nil, denying them a chance in the second round and disappointing many. In World Cup 75, the qualifiers went through in a breeze, with the team going 13-1-0 in their best qualifying run in their history. In the World Cup Finals, however, they could not break their streak of group stage finishes, drawing with Barunia 0-0 and with Pasarga 2-2 but disappointingly drawing 0-0 with Ficiscia to deny them a spot in the knockout rounds yet again. In World Cup 76, the team was hoping to finally go deep in the World Cup, and they reached their first knockout round in the team's history, after defeating bogeyman Ficiscia 5-2 and World Cup veteran Osarius 3-2. In the octofinals, they defeated #2 seed Valladares 5-2 before proceeding to lose 4-1 to San Jose Guayabal in the quarterfinals. Although it was a disappointing finish, at least the team managed their best World Cup performance ever, and they were hoping to capitalize on that performance in San Jose Guayabal and Quebec. Despite their hopes and dreams, though, they were not able to; although they rampaged through their qualifying group, in their World Cup group stage, they choked to Anglatia and therefore failed to advance.

In the next cycle, they did not even qualify for the World Cup itself after squandering a 6-point lead in the first half of qualifiers by drawing with (and losing to) a succession of lower-ranked teams before a draw with Turori basically sealed their fate. They entered the Cup of Harmony knowing they were be the tournament's second seed, and hoping they could win it all to make up for their failure in the World Cup... And they didn't, crashing out to the third pot team of Aggrey-Fynn Land in the Round of 16, promptly firing manager Elidyr Lyndainium and replacing him with 1860 Azoth coach Luke Longstar, fresh off his heels from winning a Terranean League title. Longstar won a series of important friendlies and decided to enter the team's first Copa Rushmori, fielding an experimental lineup to gauge his players' depth. There, the team made it to the semifinals before being crushed by the likes of Eura and Pasarga. Hoping that a home soil World Cup will finally lead to the success they deserve, the team had a decent run to the quarterfinals, defeating Nephara on penalties in a thriller Round of 16 match before losing to Farfadillis, also on penalties.

by **Savojarna** » Sat Feb 03, 2018 1:25 pm

SavojarSports.sj - inside reports from all Savojarna
SFF Reveals Copa 29 Roster

Following some internal discussion on which team to send to international competitions after the Men's NT failed to do too well at the World Cup, but the Women's team once again made it out of the group stage at the Cup of Harmony, the Savojar authorities have reached a decision. While a mix of female and male teams, as done in many other countries, was rejected by the SFFB, the Sports Authority had decided that there needs to be found an equitable solution for the question. Indeed, the SFFB found one deemed generally acceptable by all parties. President Ulf Rangin announced the decision yesterday at a press conference, at which the team for the Copa was also revealed. The WCQ cycles will be alternated between men and women, with the team that played the WCQ also participating in any other WCC events (such as the CoH) that they qualify for. The other team gets to play the respective Copa Rushmori in the cycle. For the next WCQ, the women were selected to have a go for the World Cup, meaning that the CR goes over to the guys. Coach Pedersen also announced the squad, which sees multiple changes from the last World Cup campaign, most notably in the formation which went from 4-4-1-1 to a more offensive 3-5-2, which easily shifts into a 5-3-2 when Savojarna doesn't have the ball.

TEAM

STAFF
Coach: Mikkel Pedersen (48)
Assistant Coach: Hans Lindberg (41), Dmitri Simunov (29)
Goalkeeper Coach: Valtteri Andersson (39)
Doctor: Dr. Christer Ljungberg (45)

STYLE: -1

STARTING XI:
GK #1 Anders Jarnström (29, 192 cm) - Dynamo Sjoedrhavn
DM #3 Stefan Johansson (20, 181 cm) - Landsmarks Industrie
DM #4 Joonas Andersson (27, 187 cm) - Admiral Storevik
ST #11 Dominik Ryberg (26, 198 cm) - ASK Landsmark
CB #13 Simon Omark (24, 178 cm) - ASK Landsmark
RM #15 Ville Mertonen (27, 184 cm) - Dynamo Novaya Russica
CM #16 Petteri Hytönen (29, 186 cm) - CASK Thorsborg
LB #17 Bjarne Thorvaldsson (20, 194 cm) - Partisan Sjoedrhavn
ST #18 Perttu Karjanen (27, 176 cm) - Partisan Sjoedrhavn - C
LF #19 Krister Voynov (19, 177 cm) - FK Admiral Storevik
RB #21 Alexey Nurkanen (22, 180 cm) - Metsuri Virkaja

BENCH
CB #2 Petter Samuelsson (33, 186 cm) - Transport Hovikkära
CB #5 Denis Metanov (28, 188 cm) - Lokomotive Jarnstad
CM #6 Niklas Hoyberg (22, 194 cm) - Dynamo Sjoedrhavn
LM #7 Patrik Andersen (31, 174 cm) - Savojars Vinge Virkaja
CM #8 Nikolai Orlov (34, 180 cm) - SK Torpedo Pawlograd
RM #9 Erik Gustafsson (25, 183 cm) - Admiral Storevik
OM #10 Marcus Nyborg (28, 179 cm) - CASK Thorsborg
GK #12 Boris Khabarov (32, 184 cm) - RLSK Pawlograd
LB #14 Igor Mitrovic (31, 180 cm) - CASK Thorsborg
ST #20 Lars Berger (22, 179 cm) - Partisan Sjoedrhavn
RB #22 Lucas Bengtsson (25, 178 cm) - Energie Thorsborg
GK #23 Fridtjof Rolfrsson (21, 184 cm) - ESK Storevik

LINEUP (3-5-2):
Jarnström - Thorvaldsson, Omark, Nurkanen - Andersson, Johansson - Voynov, Hytönen, Mertonen - Ryberg, Karjanen

ROLES
Captain: Karjanen => Hytönen => Jarnström
Free Kicks (direct): Voynov (left), Hytönen (centre/right)
Free Kicks (long): Andersson (left), Nurkanen (centre/right)
Corners: Voynov (left), Nurkanen (right)
Penalty Kick/Shootout: Karjanen => Hytönen => Ryberg => Voynov => Andersson => Andersen => Orlov => Berger (skip substituted players)

PLAYSTYLE
The Savojar team plays a defensive game, relying on its size, strength and speed to score. It tries to trap the opponent and counters quickly. Set balls are a strength of the team, as are games against quick, technical opponents. Weaknesses of the team are making the game and getting through an organised defence. Following the WCQ 79, they shifted a little more to the offence and changed their system to play both the highly dangerous and fast Karjanen as well as the more bulky and tall Dominik Ryberg at the same time. Pedersen achieved this through a 3-5-2, which employs two defensive midfielders and a playmaker. In defence, Stefan Johansson drops back to assume a centre-backish role, leading to a system more closely resembling a 4-4-2.

KITS Designed by Meski

RP PERMISSIONS
Choose Goalscorers: Y
Godmod Scoring: N
Injure Players: Y (no longer than the rest of the tournament, if it is more than on TG me)
Godmod Injuries: N
Yellow Cards: Y
Red Cards: Y - not more than one
Godmod other events: ask for permission

IMPORTANT: If you want to injure Savojar fans, journalists etc., or stage a large scale brawl (also among players) or wage war on us, I am up for that IF you send me a TG first. I will consider my permissions broken if you don't though, and not accept the act (from Savojarna's POV, it never happened - it is up to you whether it actually didn't happen or if the Savojars are lying...)

by **New Gelderland** » Sun Feb 04, 2018 12:06 pm

NEW GELDERLAND ROSTER FOR THE 29TH COPA RUSHMORI>>>

The New Gelderland Football Federation is proud to present the roster of the champions of the 60th Baptism of Fire for the World Cup.

GENERAL INFORMATION >>>

Style: -2.15

Football is one of the most popular and well-known sports in New Gelderland. Most people avidly follow or play football recreationally or casually. While the Euran League is the most popular league in New Gelderland, a nascent New Gelderlish league is forming to capitalize on the talent and interest of New Gelderland. As part of the popularity of football, the New Gelderland Football Federation was more than happy to send a team to its Terranean neighbors Eura and Valladares to compete in the Baptism of Fire, and, later, World Cup qualification matches home and away. At the first tournament that they ever played, the team won the 60th Baptism of Fire after a tense 3-2 victory over Fluvique. In their first World Cup cycle, New Gelderland reached the quarterfinals of the Cup of Harmony. New Gelderland further added the Olympic men's gold medal to their resume at the Olympics held jointly in Electrum and New Gelderland, and reached the quarterfinals of the 23rd Copa Rushmori, hosting on their first appearance.

Stylistically, the New Gelderlish national football team tends to play somewhat defensively. When playing on the offense, in contrast, the team tends to play opportunistically, watching and waiting for opportunities rather than all-out attacking. Offensive play also tends to focus on the midfield, where Louis Rhodes is more than capable of creating opportunities for Luke Virgo and Ben Griffin. Defensively, New Gelderland is known for producing very capable goalkeepers with good reflexes and eyes on the ball. The defensive side is also known for its good combination of man-to-man tactics as well as zonal defense and its tackling and pass interception abilities. With the ball, New Gelderland will likely pass the ball around until they see an opportunity; without the ball, they will try to force the ball into the defenders, try to intercept passes, or try and tackle. Recently, with the switch of Louis Rhodes and Ian Landis to attacking midfielders on the club level, David Ross decided to change his lineup and strategy to adjust with that.

Since New Gelderland has not fielded an international team in eight years, but has continued a stellar domestic league ranked ninth in the world, most of the players on this roster are old veterans of the Terranean League, and some are reaching the end of their football careers - but that doesn't matter as they will be able to represent their country once again. Despite the country's trend towards youth football, there are only a few younger players on the roster - but if New Gelderland continues to field its national team, then that number will certainly increase.

MANAGING STAFF >>>

David Ross - Manager

Stephen Rutherford - Assistant manager

ROSTER >>>

Starting XI Formation

Goalkeepers
GK Eliot Horn - 33 -

Celtic Noviodunum
GK Alex Bastion-Rier - 28 -

Lexington Victory
GK Kieran Drago - 26 -

Royal Queenstown

Defense
DL Finn Killarney - 31 -

Celtic Noviodunum
DL George Howe - 24 -

Grenville Sailors
DC Harry Landis - 30 -

Vaduz Portcullis
DC Jason Rogue - 31 -

Lexington Victory
DC Sofia Page-Osbourne - 30 -

Burnton 1963
DC Adam Montgomery - 31 -

FC Fairleigh-Warburton
DR Liam Kirkpatrick - 29 -

Celtic Noviodunum
DR Noah Cohen - 26 -

FC Fairleigh-Warburton

Midfield
ML Peter McNeill - 27 -

Somer City and Surrounds
MC Gareth Seabrook - 21 -

Union Queenstown
MC/AM Ian Landis - 29 -

Vaduz Portcullis
MC/AM (C) Louis Rhodes - 33 -

Phalanx AF
MC Luke Donovan - 26 -

Royal Queenstown
MR Jamie Wolf - 34 -

Celtic Noviodunum
DM James Montressor - 26 -

Tir Snake Strike

Forwards
FC Luke Virgo - 31 -

FC Fairleigh-Warburton
FC Ben Griffin - 31 -

Somer City and Surrounds
FC/LW Tom Auros - 28 -

Olympic Nassau Bay
FC/RW Will Paris - 29 -

Vaduz Portcullis
FC Alec Vale-Endellion - 18 -

New Oxford Nucleus

RP Permissions: No killing/severe injuries without TGing me, no red cards without TGing me. And please be nice...

by **Taeshan** » Sun Feb 04, 2018 11:26 pm

Nation Name:Taeshan
Demonym: Taeshanis, Taeshites, Taes
Team Nickname: Purple Knights
Modifier: -5
Captain: Miles Snavely
Vice-Captain: Janson Jewsbury

Jerseys

MANAGERIAL STAFF
Manager: Lysander Ying Uing
The man in charge continues to be less than a favorite among the fans and as he comes closer to 100 games in charge, his record continues to get closer to some of the least impressive managing perhaps in the history of the national team. Rumors abound that that his seat is well hot, and it seems very likely that he may be on the way out after this tournament, sooner rather than later.

Assistant Manager: Peter Wiggin
Until recently it seemed likely Peter Wiggin may be the second Wiggin to take command of the national team. That however seems more and more unlikely as he moves further and further down the pecking order. That said he is a big part of the tem's possible success, and it seems unlikely he will take over any time soon.

GOALKEEPERS

1 – Jacob Jingleheimer-Smitt – Blacklake Blues 33 Caps, 21 Years Old
The starting goalkeeper for the national team has some added talent on the club side, and seems to be pushing for success in the league, but beyond that his side is really strong, and playing well for the club means he will continue to get better for national team.

12 - Elvis Pacabel - Atlantea Hurricanes 1 Cap, 22 Years Old
The newly named number two, Elvis Pacabel, plays very strongly for his club, and is a big part of the success of the franchise. That said he doesn't seem likely to get a lot of play for the national team and may not even sniff the field for the next decade.

24– Esteban Foh – X Island Marauders 1 Cap, 18 Years Old
The young Goalkeeper for the Purple Knights is a strong option in case of emergency and will be a big part of the team moving forward, but like Pacabel doesn't seem like a huge option moving forward.

DEFENDERS

2 - LB, Alex Turniquette – X Island Marauders 56 Caps, 1 Goal, 25 Years Old
The fast Taeshani left back has been a big part of the defensive turnaround, and with his flair in the attack he has been a big part of the team, that said he will need to be on top form if the team has any chance of moving into the limelight once again.

3 - CB, Jamie Fasnacht – Blacklake Blues 28 Caps, 0 Goals, 22 Years Old
Deciding to stay with defensive partner Edison Trueblood was a big choice for the youngster from Mt Ceabring, The two decided together they were stronger than apart, and not only did they need to play together more, they need to be in perfect sync to qualify for the World Cup again.

4 - CB, Edison Trueblood – Blacklake Blues 28 Caps, 0 Goals, 22 Years Old
When Edison decided to leave Mt Ceabring it was big, when his partner in defense Jamie Fasnacht joined him in Blacklake days later it was a huge coup for the Blues. Now with a familiar goalie behind them the group hopes they can use their club gel, to succeed in the international field.

5 - RB, Alexander Kaiba - Real Atlantea 71 Caps, 27 Years Old
The fleet-footed right back Kaiba may be the elder statesmen of the squad but in the end he is still a great fullback option. To be fair they could do well to move on from him, but at the same time he does so well in all facets of the game that he is a big part of the squad moving forward.

14- Seth Green – Knightspurs 1 Cap, 0 Goals, 21 Years Old
The fullback option on the bench isn't the only person on this squad that could definitely find a greener pasture than his current club, but Seth Green has quickly risen from relative nobody to a big part of the national team in just a short turnaround.

21 – Daigo Coshan – Laketown Rangers 0 Caps, 18 Years Old
An interesting addition before the Cup of Harmony, Daigo Coshan is perhaps the nicest option in Taeshani Center Backs in a while. While being behind the duo in front of him doesn't seem like a good thing for his prospects, he is also a strong option as a Right Back should they push him in that capacity.

23- Nelson Cartwright - Fadron Flight 1 Caps, 21 Years Old
The natural center back on the bench, Cartwright can be a defensive option off the bench, but also can be used as a tall body to push forward in the attack and look for as many options as possible to push the ball forward.

MIDFIELDERS

6- CDM, Randall Abl Bakr – Tintown Terrapins 43 Caps, 3 Goals, 21 Years Old
With a chance to start recently for the national team Abl Bakr continues to be one of the strongest center defensive midfielders around and the side has been better for it with a stronger defensive shield. If the team has any hope of succeeding he will be a big part of it.

6 - LM, Janson Jewsbury – Laketown Rangers 65 Caps, 4 Goals, 26 Years Old Vice-Captain
The strong left midfielder Janson Jewsbury is hot off of a league championship and would like to add a Copa Rushmori to it. While that currently seems like a big ask, his club form was some of the hottest ever for a Taeshani and he could be a big part of the Taeshani turn-around.

10- CAM, Enrique Fuegahita – Real Chinchinhua 110 Caps, 19 Goals, 26 Years Old
Enrique has been a big part of the attack of the national team and with the second highest amount of goals for a starter on this team he seems to be a big option for the side moving forward.

11 - RM, Geoffrey Klingenberg - Knightspurs 11 Caps, 2 Goals, 20 Years Old
The big move in the Cup of harmony roster was starting Geoffrey Klingenberg and that really paid off. Now with one more smaller tournament to get him up to speed he could really continue to develop and hopefully use this tournament as a springboard from the mess that is Knightspurs.

15 – Kalvin Talbot - Bayern Phoenix 1 Cap, 21 Years Old
A strong central midfield option on the bench Kalvin Talbot is likely not the most fancied option, but he is very useful in the right spots and could see a spot start with the relatively young age of some of the midfield.

17- Elton Petersheim – Bayern-Algaer 80 Caps, 2 Goals, 27 Years Old
It seems unlikely that the Petersheim brothers would fail after so much success with their clubs and their early arrival in the lineups, but now they both seem unlikely to break the coveted century mark, as now both are not favorites to start much, and not necessarily game changers.

18 – Ensign Petersheim - New Capetown Falcons 80 Caps, 1 Goal, 27 Years Old
It seems unlikely that the Petersheim brothers would fail after so much success with their clubs and their early arrival in the lineups, but now they both seem unlikely to break the coveted century mark, as now both are not favorites to start much, and not necessarily game changers.

19 – Wilhelm Quinones - Yaton FC 28 Caps, 3 Goals, 26 Years Old
The attacking midfielder that really seems like a big option on the bench, he honestly should continue to be a strong player for the team, though this might not be the tournament for him to see much game time.

20 – Sahler Moon - Real Atlantea 2 Caps, 21 Years Old
Perhaps the understudy to Enrique Fuegahita, Sahler Moon, could see some action on for him in this tournament. He might not see a lot of the field, but he can be a late sub, or a gamechanging option.

22 – Aston Shelby - Los Riosa Monstas 0 Caps, 21 Years Old
An option on both wings, Shelby is a speedster with a knack to hit the ball really well with both feet. He really seems an option to get some more attacking flair on the wings, and can play fullback in a pinch.

STRIKERS

7 - RS, Aleksandr Denisov – Oldhem Knights 28 Caps, 5 Goals, 26 Years Old
The speedster int he attack Denisov continues to be a scoring threat. While his national team output hasn't been the same since he starter, he has been a part of the movement of the side. And with a goalscorer like Snavely you don't need as much from your second.

8 - LS, Miles Snavely – Laketown Rangers 149 Caps, 92 Goals, 30 Years OldCaptain
The captain continues to lead by example and will likely have 100 goals by the end of the next season, and with a Premier League title now in his back pocket it seems like he might push for a first Copa Rushmori title, and hopefully a world Cup berth.

13 – Horatio Galludet - Real Chinchinhua 3 Caps, 24 Years Old
The tall option on the bench Galludet can come in and be a big body in the attack, but also start in more defensive spots as a target man.

16 – Johnson Salazar – Taeshan City Miners 12 Caps, 2 Goals, 26 Years Old
Johnson Salazar is more of a wing type player, and can play up top as a false 9. Expect a lot of speed from this player.

Formation 4-4-2 (Diamond)
--Jingleheimer-Smitt--
--Kaiba—Trueblood--Fasnacht--Turniquette--
--Abl Bakr--
--Klingenberg--Jewsbury--
--Fuegahita--
--Denisov--Snavely--

by **Thibaea** » Mon Feb 05, 2018 3:47 pm

The Autorité nationale des sports of the Republic of Thibea
World Cup 79 saw the first international performances for the Thibaean national team, being led into the foray by new manager Maurice Bonhomme. They were placed into a group with international juggernauts such as Nephara and ultimately fared pretty poorly, going 3-15 and placing near dead last in their group. Manager Bonhomme has stated that while the results were incredibly poor, it was also the first time for any of these players to face opposition from outside the Ligue and it would be an incredibly challenging and new adventure for all of them,
and that World Cup 79 provided some serious lessons and experience on what the Warlocks have to do in order to improve.

Heading into their first Copa Rushmori, Bonhomme is hoping the adjustments made during the international offseason will be enough for the Warlocks to commit themselves ably, despite the overwhelming skill in Group A in the forms of Valladares, Sameba and Sargossa.

Management for the Thibaean 'Warlocks' National Team
Manager: Maurice Bonhomme
Assistant Manager: Noël Jaubert
Mr. Jaubert is the current manager for the Persan FC, a club that as remained a title competitor for the last five seasons, mostly due to Jaubert's tenacity with acquiring fresh talent and constructing robust clubs that have good depth to endure through any injuries; he previously worked under Bonhomme nine years ago when Bonhomme was the manager of Mons Altiers FC and the two have a extremely close friendship, with rumors reporting that was the main reason that he got the job as ANS wanted to ensure a good management team that worked well together.

Player-Coach: Cyril Dujardin
Cyril Dujardin managed to collect nearly 300 caps across his fourteen years of professional football within the Ligue, playing for more then four clubs though his longest stint was with Orrouy with whom he collected nearly 111 of his total first team caps and scored approximately 40 goals over his six years there. He was known for years for being one of the leading defensively minded midfielders within the Ligue and his understanding of the pitch, game and ability to be a leader both within and without the clubhouse were unparalleled. He retired just two years ago and as spent some time managing in junior leagues and was selected due to his expertise with the Thibaean football scene.

Chief Physio: Roseline Cortot

Kits for the Warlocks

Kits were designed by Ninette Sylvain of Cher Graphics Solutions, who have previously designed dozens of kits for the Ligue and other football associations and clubs within the Republic; the burgundy and blue of the primary is to represent the former colors of the old nobility while the alternate kit was selected as the royal blue is a widely popular color within the Republic while as green to represent the lush, wide green ranges and plains of the southern portions of the nation.

Players for the National Team:
Style Modifier: +2.5
Formation: 3-6-1
Captain: Vincent Desjardin
Vice Captains: Jean-Luc Deniau, Fabien Gachet
Free Kick Taker: Alexia Sardou, Valéry Barbet
Penalties: Vincent Desjardin, Hugues Lafaille

Starting XI:
GK:#2 Évrard Chappuis (Age 27, M)
CB:#1 Valéry Barbet (Age 20, M)
CB:#13 Jean-Luc Deniau (Age 25, M)
CB:#19 Zoé Cazenave (Age 30, F)
DMC:#3 Ariane Rousselle (Age 19, F)
DMC:#20 Fabien Gachet (Age 29, M)
WBL:#8 Hugues Lafaille (Age 26, M)
WBR:#15 Yseult Fétique (Age 22, F)
AMC:#4 Vincent Desjardins C (Age 27, M)
AMC:#6 Alexia Sardou (Age 24, F)
ST:#12 José Milhaud (Age 28, M)

Reserves:
GK Cécile Piaget (Age 27, F)
D/WB Noël Blanc (Age 21, M)
D Tristan Gainsbourg (Age 22, M)
D Elise Lecocq (Age 30, F)
D/MF Annie Beaumanoir (Age 27, F)
W/MF Henry Chevalier (Age 18, M)
MF Alain Gérin-Lajoie (Age 21, M)
MF Frank Héroux (Age 26, M)
CF Émilien Cochet (Age 24, M)
CF Roselyne Delafosse (Age 19, F)

Select my scorers — Yes
Give out yellow cards to my players — Yes
Give out red cards to my players — Telegram me first
RP injuries to my players — Yes for injuries limited to 3 days, anything more serious telegram me
Godmod injuries — No
Godmod scoring events — Yes
Godmod other events — Yes

by **Sarrbia** » Mon Feb 05, 2018 4:37 pm

The Tropical Republic of Sarrbia
National Association Football Team - Copa Rushmori 29

Sarrbia is an island archipelago in southwestern meridian Rushmore, near New Sirain and the Whirl Islands. It is a tropical paradise known for its abundance of white-sand beaches, enormous palm trees, extremely attractive (and scantily-dressed) populace and nearly universal drug legalization. In fact, aside from tourism, commercial sale of hard drugs, psychedelics and narcotics is the leading industry in Sarrbia and people flock here from around Rushmore to "shop" the extensive variety of "merchandise". In the sporting world, Sarrbia is noted for its equal love of beach and association football, having hosted two editions of the Beach Cup in the past. Sarrbia reached a peak world ranking of #48 after miraculously qualifying for World Cup 56, but have since faded into relative obscurity. Please note that the Sarrbian squad is mixed male, female and alternative gender identities.

Basic Information

Headquarters: Wyypuli, Sarrbia
Ground: Arena Malluma Maŭra (50,000)
Colors: Pink, White, Gold
Nickname: The Palmettos
Demonym: The Sarrbian national anthem (objects/organizations), Here come The Sarrs (people)
Mascot: Sheila the Stoner Whale
Style Modifier: +4
Tactics: Sarrbia try to play "pretty" football, even to a fault. Partially because they are lazy, they prefer to string together lots of passes rather than do a bunch of running. Everything stays on the ground. Build out of the back. Sarrs are generally very skilled with their feet and always good for some individual flair with the ball, even if it doesn't lead to much.
Status: Puppet of Cosumar

Staff

Manager: Ezra Hardy (41)
Newly-hired Ezra Hardy is a risky appointment by the FAS (Futbalo Asocio Sarrbi), who are determined to seize the Copa as a platform to build momentum back to WCC respectability by making the knockout stage for the first time in years. Only a year or two removed from zir playing days as a midfield enforcer with the Palmettos and IFK Aldenskoett in Cosumar, Hardy has no managerial experience with which to navigate Qualifying. However, ze has always been a respected - even venerated - presence in the team, which should make it a smooth transition in the dressing room. Well, the fact that ze almost never speaks and is constantly shrouded in mystery and solemn contemplation might be a bit of a hurdle, but silly things like talking to the players are what assistant coaches are for! Hardy's job is to get effort and performance from an underachieving team that has grown extraordinarily lazy and complacent. Will zir presence be enough?

Assistant Manager: Alaina Westwest
Goalkeeping Coach: Kio Arabulle
Defense Coach: Donovan Buckles
Midfield Coach: Susi Cye
Strikers Coach: Milo Madlambayan
Fitness Coach: Rosafinka Madlambayan

Starting XI (4-2-3-1)

Goalkeeper | Altavian KALHORO | (31F - Port Patrick -

)
Left Fullback | Shayla BRILLANT | (28F - FK Voluptamoro -

)
Center Back | Tempest HONEYCUTT | (55F - Palmo Marbordo -

)
Center Back | Marco FENOGLIO | (30M - Strava Exankalla -

)
Right Fullback | Andressa FESTA | (30F - Northern Stallions -

)
Hold Midfielder | Cynthia THATCHER | (34F - FK Arĝento Monto -

)
Hold Midfielder | Jonni GYRI | (23 - Androgyne - Palmo Marbordo -

)
Left Att. Midfielder | Lillian HATHOWAY (C) | (38F - Retired From Club Football)
Center Att. Midfielder | Kelvin LISCO | (24M - KT Moreazerua -

)
Right Att. Midfielder | Tuki POHTUCA | (25 - Genderfluid - Androtus

)
Center Forward | Salgin ORDRUVOR | (29M - Cenial Liberty -

)

Kelvin Lisco is the key player here. He is essentially a product of Audioslavian development, having moved there at 14, and is thus immune to many of the trappings typically associated with Sarrs (laziness, lack of discipline, all style no finish). He is one of the few current Sarrs who have escaped Meridian Rushmore and carved a place in a legitimate league abroad, along with solid Port Patrick goalkeeper Altavian Kalhoro, respected former Härlighet Ligan journeywoman Lillian Hathoway and a couple others. With Lisco, Hathaway and Tuki Pohtuca (the next Sarr earmarked for a move abroad) lining up together, the creative attacking midfield is the definite strength of the side. In other areas, the Palmettos look... less professional. Middle-aged defender Tempest Honeycutt remains a baffling inclusion year-after-year. Her (well-connected) family is almost definitely bribing someone.

Substitutes

Goalkeeper | Gulbrand CARDINI | (39M - FK Malibog -

)
Defender | Marymar WHIRLOCK | (32F - Aleta Rozkoton -

)
Defender | Hung NGUYEN-NUGENT | (23M - FK Arĝento Monto

)
Defender | Kimbra YAMAMOTO | (40F - Safiro Rivero -

)
Defender | Jess KUTLER | (33F - Bergeron

)
Hold Midfielder | Magdalena BELLADONNA | (25F - Jombouli Kunigitaj -

)
Hold Midfielder | Adam WOJCNIK | (31M - Pnembli Lago -

)
Att. Midfielder | Sohyun KANG | (36F - Pardock Island -

)
Att. Midfielder | Kai CASTRANOVA | (27 - Nonbinary - Malton Urbo

)
Att. Midfielder | Mohinder MISRA | (39M - Capiciam Kunigitaj -

)
Forward | Angela ARROWAY | (32F - FK Wyypuli -

)
Forward | Dmytro KUROSAWA | (41M - AFK Fendo (Player-Coach)

)

The player to watch out for on the bench is tall center forward Dmytro Kurosawa. He may be 41 and a little pudgier in the middle than he used to be, but he still has that killer instinct for goal. Watch out for him coming on late in games. Universally recognized as one of the top three Sarrbian players of all-time, he is a club legend at both AC Holmenkollen and Crawford City FC in Cosumar and Sarrbia's record goalscorer in a foreign league. This may be his last tournament with Sarrbia, as he has already somewhat transitioned into a coaching role at neighboring New Sirain's tiny AFK Fendo. Sohyun Kang, who was the top scorer in Cosumar's third division five seasons ago (Bronze Boot), could also provide some danger. Maybe. The rest of the depth is sourced domestically from Ligo Premiere, the modest league of Sarrbia and New Sirain.

Kit

by **Darmen** » Mon Feb 05, 2018 4:41 pm

OOC: The Copa is occurring in November, 2040 in the Darmeni timeline. Ages are correct as of November 3rd, 2040.

National Football Team of Darmen
presented by the
Darmeni Football Association

Formation: 3-1-4-2
Style Mod: +3

Coaching Staff
Position          Name                 Age
Manager           Godefroy Abascal     37
Assistant Manager Berhtoald Myers      32
Offensive Coach   Iwan Perrault        45
Defensive Coach   Evan Bullock         46
Goalkeeping Coach Martín Findlay       35

23 Man Roster
Pos Name                  Age Caps Goals Club
GK  Hyman Campo           20  24   0     Suburban Warriors (Isula Reale)
GK  Daniel Abram          20   2   0     Royal PFC
GK  Fiacre Knopp          28   1   0     Club Jim Falls

LB  Jean Virgo            25  25   1     Chuckio FC
LB  Anastasio Wilkie      21   3   0     Chippewa Valley United FC
CB  Silver Abbey          21  36   0     Tempala United Saints
CB  Jacob Coghlan         28   8   0     MTK Kingsville
RB  Ritchie Porsche       30  74   4     Darmen City United
RB  Klopas Maddox         27  23   0     Augusta

DM  Alberich Goldschmidt  27  85  12     MTK Kingsville
DM  Kerr Ramírez          23  20   0     Rushmore United

LM  Mordecai Ó Cuilinn    23  52   5     Chippewa Valley United FC
LM  Riley Mac Pharlain    21  10   1     Nyancato Institue
LCM Marcellinus Winton    25  28   3     Vogler City Force
LCM Gerrard Parks         22   4   0     AFC Scott City
RCM Zachariah Butler      27  48   6     Brham United
RCM Mercurius Byrnes      21   9   0     University of Science
RM  Juanito Stafford      22  24   1     Rogerton Valladar CF
RM  Aquila Freud          20   4   2     Maxford University

LF  Felix Lucanus         29  82  46     Sterling City United
LF  Brian Firmin          23  30   9     Johnho United
RF  Craig Blackwood       20  13   8     Royal PFC
RF  Colin Russell         28  19   2     Scott City FC

Starting XI & Formation
------Lucanus-------Blackwood------
-Ó Cuilinn-Winton--Butler-Stafford-
------------Goldschmidt------------
----Virgo-----Abbey-----Porsche----
---------------Campo---------------

Captain: Felix Lucanus
Vice-Captain: Alberich Goldschmidt
Left Corner: Alberich Goldschmidt
Right Corner: Alberich Goldschmidt
Penalties: Felix Lucanus
Free-kicks: Alberich Goldschmidt

RP Permissions: No killing, or other serious life altering events, otherwise have fun.

by **Northern Natanians** » Mon Feb 05, 2018 7:34 pm

The Kingdom of Northern Natanians roster

starters

# name position age

1	Giovanni Carolus Medici      	goalkeeper        	22
2	Carlo Ion Ionescu	           right wingback	23
3	Marcello Giuseppe Gheorghenescu	centre back       	27
4	Ion Carolus Macchiavelli	centre back       	22
5	Americo Cristoffa Ionescu	deffensive midfielder	23
6	Costoforo Ion Torjenescu	left wingback     	21
7	Mihai Michele Combo *	     attacking midfielder	20
8	Giovanni Cicero Boceli	     deffensive midfielder	28
9	Gabriel Mihai Pirlo	        striker                 27
10	Sandro Ion Ionescu	    attacking midfielder	22
11	Leonardo Appio Alighieri	striker                 20

Captain's name is in blue
*Michele is read [mi.'kɛ.le] (like mee-keh-leh[the second "eh" more closed,like it'd be in Spanish])

bench

# name position age

12	Giorgio Mihai Apilescu        	goalkeeper         	22
13	Giulio Augusto Giovinco      	centre back        	23
14	Marcello Ioannis Ionescu	centre back        	24
15	João Mauricio Leone             right wingback         	23
16	Giovanni Ion Gonzaga         	left wingback        	22
17	Marcello Ioan Enderssen       	deffensive midfielder	21
18	João Vitor Moretto       	deffensive midfielder	20
19	Giuseppe Ion Sousa      	attacking midfielder	25
20	Ion Giovanni Souza       	striker          	27
21	Marco Mihai Lopes               attacking midfielder	26
22	Pietro Petre Petrescu     	goalkeeper         	28
23	Mihai Carolus Ionescu   	striker         	22

Starting position:

9   	   	11

       7 	   	       10

     	     8	    	5


6	4	   	3       	2

  	   	1

RP Permissions:
Chose my goalscorers: YES*
godmod scoring events: YES
Give injures to my players: NO
godmod injures to my players: NO
Give yellow cards to my players: YES (1 per match)
Give red cards to my players: NO
godmod other events: NO

*Most to least probable of scoring:11,10,9,7,3,8(,23,20),4(,21),5

by **Ceni** » Mon Feb 05, 2018 9:34 pm

OOC note: set ICly before the finals of WC 79.

Continued from Here.

To Brobdingnag We Go
Chapter Five: The Press Conference

"What is going on here?" asked Sarah loudly. "This isn't the airship portal! I demand answers!"

"This is a press conference, sweetie," one of the assembled journalists said. "Didn't your Daddy tell you?"

"Yeah! We've been waiting here for hours, waiting for you guys to show up!" said another. "How come you didn't know about it?"

"Uhm... maybe because nobody told us about it?" asked Andrew quizzically. He shot a nasty look at Seth. "What is going on here?"

"Uh... maybe I should have told you guys about this earlier..." Seth said, looking at his watch. "You guys are going to answer these gentlemen's questions!"

"No shit, Sherlock," said Sarah. "They just told us that this is a press conference!" She waited for a response, but the silence hung heavily in the air: Seth had disappeared. The two looked around for the exits, but all were blocked. It looked like they would be stuck there until the journalists were satisfied.

"Let's get started!" the first journalist said, with a look on his face suggesting that he was about to dig into Grandma's famous blueberry pie.

"What's shortie doing here?" wondered the second. "We've been expecting Andrew and Sarah Arrowsword, not Sarah Arrowsword and some shrimpy little human." Evidently, the Drawkian media hadn't covered Andrew that extensively, or they would have known he was... er, shorter.

"This is him speaking," said Andrew. "You were expecting me to be taller, weren't you?" The journalist nodded. "I get that a lot from Drawkians. They always expect one of their native sons, so to speak, to be a little taller."

As Andrew and Sarah walked up to the table set up for them, with two chairs (Andrew's was too big, of course), the journalists murmured and began to snap pictures. Once they sat down, the questioning period began. A woman's hand in the front row shot up. "Andrew, how does it feel to be in Drawkland, finally?"

"It feels a little weird, especially considering that everybody thinks that I can't be who I am, and that I need a ladder to go to the bathroom. Plus, it's kind of intimidating to be grilled by people two feet taller than you."

The next time, more hands shot up. Andrew called on a man in the back wearing a purple bowtie with stars on it. "This question is for Sarah, actually. Is it weird to finally meet your half-brother? What's your relationship like?"

"Of course it was awkward to see him in person for the first time. We actually ran into each other at the train station - literally. Well, he ran into us. We were just minding our own business, and... bam! Of course, it felt like a fly landing on us, since he's so tiny..." Sarah chuckled, eliciting a few laughs from the crowd. "I think our relationship has developed a little bit. I'm the older sister, so everyone knows I'm the better half of this pairing."

"Andrew, the same question," another journalist shouted, still furiously scribbling.

"Sarah totally overstates her role in our relationship - she's sarcastic and sometimes funny, I'm the person that will dunk her head in cold water (that is, if I can reach it) from time to time if I have to. I'm the sane one in this relationship. And as for how we met," he said, taking a sip of water, "I didn't realize how tall Drawkians are!"

A journalist in a yellow blouse took the next question. "How do you feel about your father? Did you ever have a true father figure in your life?"

"Considering that he just abandoned us here without telling us in advance, I'd say that our relationship is at a low point about right now." His voice sounded like a winter's day, the iciness evident. "And no, I never had a formal father figure when I was growing up. But I don't think it hurt me. My mother loved me enough for the both of them."

"Have a girlfriend?" asked a youngish woman with a sheepish smile.

"I assume this question is directed at Andrew?" asked Sarah, with a smile. She had that glint in here eyes, one that indicated that she knew Andrew's response to the question, and what the crowd's reaction would be. The journalist nodded, making eye contact with Andrew.

"No, I don't," said Andrew. "But I do have a boyfriend. In fact - when I get back to Ceni, I'm planning to propose to him."

"You said boyfriend, right?" asked the journalist, confused.

"You bet I did," Andrew said, smiling, as if anticipating the crowd's response. It erupted with murmurs of all kinds - murmurs not of disapproval, but more of shock and surprise.

"Calm down, calm down," said Sarah, making a gesture to the same effect. "I know it doesn't happen much here in Drawkland, but it does happen. If it reassures you -" Here, Sarah brought out her charming smile "- Dad and I have made our peace with it."

Slowly, the murmurs died down, but the shock remained. Still, one of the journalists worked up the bravery to ask another question. "Andrew-" the man stuttered a little bit "- why ARE you here in Drawkland? I want the real reason."

"I was told that I would be meeting Iarocav to honor the winning Ceni-Drawkland World Cup bid, and then Sarah and Dad were going to give me a tour of the major attractions. But-" Andrew looked at his watch, disappointed that barely any time had gone by "-seeing as we're here and not in Iarocav's private airship, I have my doubts about that plan. Enough about my personal life, though - let's talk about football now." Thus, the topic was changed.

The crowd obliged. Sarah answered the next question about her career at Whitehaven Triumph; she expressed a desire to move on to another club in the next transfer window. Asked about the state of Drawkian football, Sarah expressed disappointment that the Drawkian league wasn't participating in UICA, but, of course, she had to praise the national team's perfect qualification streak. The next question went to Andrew. "How do you feel about Ceni's chances in the next World Cup, considering its trials and tribulations in the last cycle?"

"Pardon my language, but we got screwed over in the last cycle. I don't think that our performance was a bad reflection on us; we just had bad luck. Personally, I think our team this year is great, and we gave great chances. Don't let anyone tell you anything else."

The press conference dragged on for another thirty minutes or so, at which point Seth Arrowsword came running back into the room. "Friends, Drawkians, countrymen - led me your ears," he intoned with a booming voice. "The royal airship has arrived. Sarah and Andrew will no longer be available; hope you guys had a fun time!" He wore a beaming smile as the reporters began to pack their things.

"Finally," Andrew muttered to himself. "Finally."

by **Nephara** » Mon Feb 05, 2018 11:23 pm

NEPHARA
World Ranking: 13th
Preferred Formation: 4-2-3-1
Secondary Formation: 4-4-2, 4-3-3
Style Modifier: 0
Home Stadium: The Farham Arena in Sabrefell. Capacity of 88,000, home club of Sabrefell Moths.
Kit Supplier: Kirola
Nickname: The Cormorants

After a disappointing but ultimately credible exit to co-hosts Ceni on penalties, it's looking like there's life in the Cormorants yet. Brandon is taking a couple of risks with his squad selection, while still retaining a very strong squad with its aim squarely on silverware.

Overall Record
349 wins - 68 draws - 100 losses
1105 scored - 614 conceded

Trophies
Baptism of Fire 51
Cup of Harmony 61
World Cup 74
Eagle's Cup 5
5 Campionati Esportiva - 6, 8, 10, 15 and 18
Only the second nation in history to achieve the 'Grand Slam' of WCC titles - represented by three stars on the crest.

Most Caps
172 - Hadrian Belfast
155 - Elaine Ashdown
141 - Tosca Marlowe
137 - Cathy Stokes
136 - Tanith Rainsford
134 - Michael Brandon
126 - Anna Shrike
118 - Malachite Scharner
116 - Dale Brightley, Diandra Ballard, Sasha Christener, Penumbra Amokachi, Adnan Szalai
111 - Calliope Katskalidis
108 - Gerhard Thunder
104 - Rook Cathar
103 - Keith Rowland

Most Goals
65 - Penumbra Amokachi
57 - Gerhard Thunder
55 - Rook Cathar
50 - Elaine Ashdown
47 - Keith Rowland

Most Clean Sheets
44 - Diandra Ballard (116 caps)
28 - Portia Thrift (78 caps), Kieron Riordan (66 caps)
24 - Reece Coleman (51 caps)
23 - Apostolos Tsattalios (63 caps)

I Give My Opponent Permission To:
=================================
Choose My Goalscorers:        Y*
Godmod Goalscoring Events:    N
Injure Players:               Y**
Godmod Injury Events:         N
Red Card Players:             Y***
Yellow Card Players:          Y
Godmod Other Events:          N
=================================

* Gosforth takes penalties and right-footed set pieces. Strongbow takes left-footed set pieces.
** I'll have the final say on how long the player will be out, but feel free to make them look severe as you want.
*** One per match.

First Team and Tactics

As always, the Cormorants play hard, physical and compact football on the defensive and quick, broad and ruthless on the attack, especially loving to absorb pressure and hit on the break. Set pieces are also something of a specialty.

Brandon has built on Fegelein's ideas and changed the team's focus. Nephara is back to pressing high, with a sweeping goalkeeper in Tsattalios, attacking fullbacks, a powerful spine, some very quick and powerful wingers, Gosforth linking midfield to the big, physical and fast striker up front. Brandon is very much in favour of tinkering mid-match, however, and is entirely comfortable in a variety of formations - mostly 4-3-3 and 4-4-2.

Staff
Manager - Michael Brandon - Age 47
Assistant Manager - Tom Riley (EUR) - Age 53

Michael Brandon - a legendary figure for the Cormorants and Directus as a holding midfielder, Nephara's first ever player to be widely regarded as world-class - has taken his incisive knowledge of the sport and razor-sharp intellect into coaching. He's an uncompromising leader who demands absolute loyalty and high performance from his players, and early signs in his first managerial role are promising. Tom Riley, a noteworthy former player as well, has been brought in as his assistant, and is the first foreign management staff in the Cormorants' history.

Goalkeepers
Core
1 - GK - Apostolos Tsattalios (

Falourr) - Age 29 - 63 caps, 23 clean sheets
A very modern goalkeeper who sweeps behind the defence and has excellent distribution, Tsattalios has truly proven himself in national colours after a bump start to his international career.

12 - GK - Gideon Fletcher (

AFC Treason) - Age 33 - 29 caps, 13 clean sheets
An outstanding traditional shot-stopper, representing a steady pair of hands. Most Nepharim believe he should be the regular starter, but Brandon appears to favour Tsattalios.

20 - GK - Anthoulis Matraxis (

Creed United) - Age 24 - 4 caps, 1 clean sheet
An athletic, quick-footed goalkeeper, with excellent distribution skills. Matraxis is thoroughly in the modern mould.

Defenders
2 - RB - Leona Rafford (

Crisisbless) - Age 26 - 50 caps, 4 goals
A true larrikin on and off the pitch, with a decidedly combative streak. Lightning-quick running down the right, not letting her diminutive stature stop her. Suffered a knee injury midway through qualifying and is only just coming back into fitness.

3 - LB - Sieglinde Lohengrin (

Crisisbless, vc) - Age 28 - 69 caps, 3 goals
Tall, elegant and almost mournful in bearing, Lohengrin's a composed, complete fullback with a world-class crossing ability. More than does her shift defensively, too.

5 - CB - Dieter Konoval (

KT Moreazerua) - Age 29 - 85 caps, 1 goal
A bruiser at his core, Konoval's most at home bullying small, weak forwards. Not as tall as some might expect, but a deceptively quick sprinter.

6 - CB - Malachite Scharner (

Jungle Strike) - Age 31 - 118 caps, 7 goals
A World Cup winning defender, hard-nosed and rippling with tattoos. She looks and defends like a nightclub banner, and ever since reconciling with Michael Brandon (having fallen out with him a while back) she's been in imperious form.

18 - RB/CB - Danijel Brymora (

Brinemouth) - Age 27 - 30 caps
A sturdy, defensive fullback, or a technically proficient centre-half - Brymora's versatile and very intelligent to match his physicality.

19 - LB - Lux Vicelich (

Sabrefell Moths) - Age 24 - 21 caps
Another quick, spiky fullback, with a distinctly dirty streak. A street kid from the Moths with a rough past, but a very bright future. Loves to go forward and can drop a cross on anything.

22 - CB - Dragora Steelhenge (

Cornellians) - Age 24 - 10 caps
A tall, assured centre-half who belies her age with a regal bearing and a real bite in the tackle. Mentally resolute, and has worked hard on her ability to recover from errors.

Midfielders
4 - HM - Servet Misidjan (

AFC Treason) - Age 25 - 28 caps, 1 goal
A very promising young midfielder, an elegant, austere and hard-running player with wonderful technique and intelligence on the ball. Still, she's not quite there yet, and can fade out of games.

7 - RM - Adnan Szalai (

Ulsa) - Age 30 - 116 caps, 35 goals
The first ever Boldsport Galactico, deemed the best player in the world four years ago. A beast of a winger, with a street-fighter's instinct. Rumoured to be illiterate. That's close enough to the truth, but his mind is razor-sharp, as is his technique, pace and power.

8 - CM - Vedran Tarashaj (

AFC Treason) - Age 28 - 54 caps, 10 goals
Muscular, quick and fiery to a fault, Tarashaj has a habit of letting his emotions get the best of him. When he's focused, he's a brilliant box-to-box player with a ferocious shot.

11 - LAM - Rowena Strongbow (

Avenida Leal) - Age 23 - 41 caps, 10 goals
A powerful, old-school Nepharim winger who burst onto the scene a while back and has impressed everyone for club and country. Shaping up to be genuinely world-class, and Farfadillis has proven to be her finishing school.

13 - RAM - Ishtar Fanaiyan (

Eastweald) - Age 23 - 15 caps, 3 goals
Iskandrian by birth, Fanaiyan's endured terrible hardships and will take nothing for granted as a professional. Lightning-quick, a bastion of athleticism.

14 - CAM - Ursula Rowan (

Cassandra City) - Age 28 - 29 caps, 8 goals
Powerful and direct, Rowan's a versatile enough player to fit deeper but relishes the chance to charge forward and cause trouble. Not a slow-paced playmaker, but works best with the tempo pumped up.

15 - CM - Rusalka Klein (

Crawford City FC) - Age 24 - 16 caps, 3 goals
A lanky, elegant player who strides through the midfield with a charming confidence. Very easy to watch in possession, diligent at winning it back, but still just a little rough around the edges.

16 - LAM - Regatta Aspenwood (

Handon United) - Age 27 - 12 caps, 4 goals
Tall, elegant and athletic, Aspenwood's never actually played in the Premiership, leaving for Schottia after powering Southfell to promotion. Panoramic vision, a vicious shot, a feather-like first touch and a gift for improvisation.

21 - CAM - Konrad Gosforth (

Mâ Âlâmëómë, c) - Age 29 - 76 caps, 20 goals
A clinical, deft playmaker, Gosforth combines physical power and Nepharim graft with a keen intelligence, an eye for goal and, most importantly of all, a flawless sense of timing. Can he fit within the team? That's the test.

23 - HM - Monica Rowland (

Parrhesia United) - Age 23 - 11 caps
A fiercely ambitious midfielder with a razor-sharp intelligence, Rowland is set for great things and knows it. A genuinely assured presence on the ball, Rowland makes everything around her calmer right up until she sends a ferocious bullet pass downfield.

Forwards
9 - ST - Estrella Hawke (

Sabrefell Athletic) - Age 25 - 59 caps, 31 goals
Statuesque and athletic, Hawke's very strong, very quick and ruthless with the ball at her feet. Her first touch can be her downfall, and she's at her most comfortable charging forward at full pelt. As a pure striker's striker, she's world-class.

10 - ST - Heron Kendall (

Port Christopher) - Age 27 - 5 caps, 5 goals
A journeywoman mercenary who's played in four different nations over the past four years. Tall, confident and powerful, Kendall's a goalscorer first and foremost. Has something of a 'lucky charm' reputation after scoring in each of her four caps prior to the World Cup.

17 - ST - Nevaeh Cathar (

Avenida Leal) - Age 25 - 11 caps, 7 goals
Daughter of Rook Cathar, and very much in his image - quick, impulsive, physical, ruthless in front of goal and, after striking out on her own in Farfadillis, increasingly strong as well.

ABBREVIATED ROSTER
Goalkeepers: 1 - Apostolos Tsattalios (Falourr, EUR), 12 - Gideon Fletcher (AFC Treason), 20 - Anthoulis Matraxis (Creed United)
Defenders: 2 - Leona Rafford (Crisisbless), 3 - Sieglinde Lohengrin (Crisisbless), 5 - Dieter Konoval (KT Moreazerua, AUD), 6 - Malachite Scharner (Jungle Strike, VIL), 18 - Danijel Brymora (Brinemouth), 19 - Lux Vicelich (Sabrefell Moths), 22 - Dragora Steelhenge (Cornellians, SCT)
Midfielders: 4 - Servet Misidjan (AFC Treason), 7 - Adnan Szalai (Ulsa, EUR), 8 - Vedran Tarashaj (AFC Treason), 11 - Rowena Strongbow (Avenida Leal, FFD), 13 - Ishtar Fanaiyan (Eastweald, COS), 14 - Ursula Rowan (Cassandra City, COS), 15 - Rusalka Klein (Crawford City FC, COS), 16 - Regatta Aspenwood (Handon United, SCT), 21 - Konrad Gosforth (Mâ Âlâmëómë, FFD, c), 23 - Helmut Chilmark (Holdenberg, EUR)
Forwards: 9 - Estrella Hawke (Sabrefell Athletic), 10 - Heron Kendall (Port Sebastian, SCT), 17 - Nevaeh Cathar (Avenida Leal, FFD)

by **Yue Zhou** » Mon Feb 05, 2018 11:58 pm

THE PEOPLE’S FEDERATION OF YUEZHOU - NATIONAL FOOTBALL TEAM

月州人民联邦 - 国家足球队

Yuezhou heavily disappointed at the Cup of Harmony, finishing a mere fourth of five teams in their group just one year removed from an octofinals berth. Still, the Copa Rushmori offers the promise of redemption for Alex Cartwright's men - as well as potentially serving as a stepping stone from one excellent qualification to the next.

Although Yuezhou's low rank makes them one of the less-favored sides to perform well at this tournament, a low rank certainly didn't stop the CoH70 or CR28 Red Dragons from making the Round of Sixteen. Llamanean Manager Alex Cartwright has returned with the same core group of players with the quarterfinals in his sights.

Nickname: The Red Dragons
Manager: Alex CARTWRIGHT
Style Modifier: -1.5

Formation

Most Goals:
1. Jiawei Sangu (16)
2. Fu Xi (13)
3. Wen Xiaoli (7)
Most Assists:
1. Wen Xiaoli (12)
2. Fu Xi (11)
3. Zhang Zhenya (6)
Most Caps:
1. Han Ruoyang (45)
2. Zhang Zhenya (45)
3. Jin Guiyu (45)

GOALKEEPERS

#12 - WU Zhen - 24 - Yincheng Capitals

Cartwright has made his preference for a more modern starting goalkeeper well-known, and young Wu Zhen has finally matured enough to fit into that role. Last year’s Golden Gloves winner in the Yuezhou Premier League, Wu is an excellent distributor who’s become the nation’s best shot stopper as well. An aggressive, athletic goalkeeper not afraid to come out of his box, Wu has also quietly become a team leader.

#01 - WEI Haidong - 32 - Nangang Royals
#23 - RUO Xiaolan - 24 - Cypher Town (NPH)

Former starter Wei’s play is marked by fantastic reflex-saves and great athleticism - but although he’s very vocal off the pitch, he’s not exactly a leader on it, and he does make the occasional gaffe on set-pieces. Meanwhile, Ruo Xiaolan is a very similar, perhaps even more athletic goalkeeper - as well as, after helping Cypher Town secure promotion to Nephara's top flight, the first female player on the national team

DEFENDERS

#17 - FAN Xiaopeng - 30 - Goldstaff City (COS)
#25 - MA Jianke - 28 - Dynamo Dalian
#03 - HAN Ruoyang [C] - 32 - Beian City
#15 - JIN Guiyu - 28 - SC Jiangdong
#14 - LIN Wangming - 23 - Beian City

Interestingly enough, the defense may be the most talented part of this Red Dragons team. After a few solid seasons in the YPL, Fan Xiaopeng seriously broke out with Cosumar’s Goldstaff City, being named as the best leftback in the league and showing off his athleticism and attacking prowess while becoming a defensive anchor. He’s the most talented player in this defense, but center-back and team captain Han Ruoyang is the most important. Not only does he lead the defense - both vocally and by example - but he’s also an athletic playmaker who will drift forwards and punish you if given the opportunity. Han is flanked by two solid center-backs - Ma Jianke of recently-promoted Dynamo Dalian revels in dirty work and is a very strong man-marker and defender, while Jin Guiyu is solid in the air and very versatile. Last but absolutely not least - except in age - talented right-back Lin Wangming has become a major attacking threat for Beian, and his defense has improved enough to win him the final starting spot in the back five.

#13 - LIANG Yufeng - 27 - Yincheng Capitals
#16 - HU Zheng - 31 - Yincheng Capitals
#02 - WANG Wuying - 29 - Olympic Nangang
#55 - ZHAXI Nanlei - 26 - Mükiazhou Athletic

A solid assortment of backup options. Zhaxi Nanlei is an excellent developing right-back, albeit one with less potential and pace than his usurper Lin Wangming, and the ambidextrous and versatile Liang Yufeng is more defensive-minded but still very solid. Closer to the middle, the versatile Hu Zheng is a more physical center-back options who could be used to close out a game, and former starter Wang Wuying, despite a poor qualifying campaign that Cartwright determined outweighed his solid league performance, is still a solid backup option at center-back. Somewhat concerningly though, there’s no replacement for captain Han Ruoyang - if he goes down, Yuezhou’s system goes down with him, although Yuezhou have enough serviceable defenders to get by with a more defensive 5-at-the-back formation.

MIDFIELDERS

#08 - ZHANG Zhenya - 34 - Nangang Royals
#21 - WEN Xiaoli - 27 - Lotus Park (BRE)
#11 - HONG Guilin - 31 - FC Shanbei

Cartwright has raised eyebrows - and potentially done much more in the long run - by centering his midfield around controversial young Wen Xiaoli. A proud member of the Sangau (a questionably-Yue western territory) Nationalist Movement who has been imprisoned several times for his actions as part of the SNM, Wen is nevertheless a brilliant - if still somewhat inconsistent - playmaker and tireless presser who has proven himself worth the trust Cartwright has put in him with brilliant performances both at home and abroad. Flanking him is competent water-carrier Zhang Zhenya, one of the few bright spots in Nangang’s terrible season, and Hong Guilin, a new addition to the team and one of Cartwright’s favorites - a tireless defensive midfielder who also has an eye for counterattacks.

#19 - WEI Jiabin - 27 - Beian Rovers
#30 - ZHONG Wei - 29 - Wheathampton Warriors (SLL)
#32 - QUAN Zedong - 28 - Olympic Nangang

A very solid trio of backups. Wei Jiabin is in theory a deep-lying playmaker, but although he’s more than capable of making brilliant passes, it’s not something that happens often for the defensive-minded midfielder - something Cartwright would definitely like to change. Llamanea-based Zhong Wei is a midfielder very much in the Hong Guilin mold, although his work rate isn’t up to par. Finally, Quan Zedong was named the best player in the Yuezhou Premier League two seasons ago - but Cartwright has continued to go with Wen Xiaoli over him in the advanced playmaker role.

STRIKERS

#10 - FU Xi - 28 - Viztourzys Kolektyvinis (BYN)
#9 - JIAWEI Sangu - 35 - Mükiazhou Athletic

The opposite of Qiu Hanying's pessimistic one-striker formation, Alex Cartwright’s attack is fluid, dynamic, and athletic. Fu Xi is a false-nine who has played a leading role in first Yincheng’s and then Viztourzy’s strong seasons, and is known both for his playmaking abilities and for his finishing skills inside the box. On his right is Jiawei Sangu. One of two Mükiazhou-based players on the team, Jiawei has scored 301 goals over 12 seasons in the league and is a complete striker who will play much further inside than former winger and second-choice Guo - although he is starting to slow down with age.

#07 - GUO Zexi - 28 - Beian City
#18 - XIE Xueyi - 27 - Beian City
#20 - HUANG Shenan - 31 - SC Jiangdong

A solid trio of backups. Guo Zexi, the fastest man on the team, is a very skilled dribbler and passer on either wing who just can’t finish. Xie Xueyi may have questionable decision making at times, but he’s young, talented, and athletic, and will be useful as an impact sub. Finally, returnee Huang Shenan has become a dominant all-around inside forward since his return from injury, and replaces Ren Delan on the side.

RP Permissions: Don't kill/injure for life, TG for approval if you're going to godmod. Everything else is fair game.

by **Trans-Dniesters** » Tue Feb 06, 2018 6:20 am

THE DEMOCRATIC PEOPLE'S REPUBLIC OF THE UNITED SOCIALIST STATES OF PRIDNESTROVIA
NATIONAL ASSOCIATION FOOTBALL TEAM

It has been at least six years since Field Marshal Stepan Stepanovich Stepanenko was defeated in glorious battle against the forces of the Democratic Republic of Abanhfleft, six years since the greatest field marshal the world has ever seen was undisputably beaten by the forces of a faraway country that was still in the midst of recovering from a devastating religious civil war. Those six years have seen humiliation upon humiliation bestowed by these meddling foreigners upon the once and only rightful ruler of the United Socialist States, Field Marshal Stepan Stepanovich Stepanenko. The nation, and our Great Leader, was forced to accept a humiliating peace with the "Democratic" Republic, which saw our glorious nation become a mere "client state" of these troublesome foreigners. In exchange, Great Leader Field Marshal Stepan Stepanovich Stepanenko, would remain in position as rightful ruler of the Democratic People's Republic of the United Socialist States of Pridnestrovia, as befitting his station in life. Yet knowing that he is only ruler by virtue of a foreigner's whim has weighed down hard on the Great Leader Field Marshal. This resulted in the great United Socialist States closing itself off from the rest of the multiverse, so that no foreigner would see the shame that had been wrought upon the Great Leader.

But no longer. Great Leader Field Marshal Stepan Stepanovich Stepanenko has decided that the time for seclusion is over. No longer will Pridnestrovia remain under the shadow of the foreigners that had forced itself upon our great nation. We will show that Pridnestrovia has what it takes to become a real and true member of the multiversal community. But we will not do it through our military force. Instead, we will show that we are the best in the multiverse through sports! Sports, which is just codified barbarism! This will show the multiverse that Pridnestrovia is the best sporting country in the world! We will defeat every other nation that dares come up against us!

(OOC: I love being a dictatorial country's propaganda writer)

BASIC INFORMATION
Name of nation: The Democratic People's Republic of the United Socialist States of Pridnestrovia
Demonym: Pridnestrovian
Team colors: Green and red
Style modifier: -5 (This time it's all defensive)
Formation: 3-5-2
Head coach: Gaëtano Bernardeschi (80 y/o, Abanhfleft)

STARTERS
GK: Ferdinand Julius ABBING 32 y/o, Dinamo Bender

, vice-captain
Five years as the starting goalkeeper of Dinamo Bender and leading them to the Pridnestrovian Cup twice in those five years is surely the sign of a great goalkeeper, good enough to dethrone Svyatoslav Alkaev from the number 1 spot and take it for himself. Ferdinand Abbing is an excellent space manager and can handle anything from inside his box and also doesn't hesitate to rush out and put fear in the hearts of rushing opposition players. (Basically a clone of Manuel Neuer.)

RB: Yuri Artyomovich TYMOSHENKO 31 y/o, Sporting Ceneisis

(Abanhfleft)
Younger brother of Pridnestrovian women's national football team defender Yelena Tymoshenko. Like his sister, Yuri is good in the air and has a wicked good right foot that can send the ball into the back of the net if he hits the ball just right. But unlike his sister, when he turns crap, it becomes immediately noticeable during the 90 minutes of play as when he's crap, he's really, really crap.

CB: Aleksey Valentinovich VASILYEV 33 y/o, Locomotive Imgortur

(Abanhfleft)
Whoever said that a back line of only three defenders would be torn to pieces in the Fleftic Premier League obviously hadn't predicted the rise of Aleksey Vasilyev in the center back position, and while the departure of Charles Amoroso to Farfadillis may leave Locomotive in a dangerous position following their 7th-place finish last season, but hopefully some activity in the transfer window will add some strength to the backbone and add defensive strength alongside Vasilyev.

LB: Adam Vladimirovich VADIMENKO 27 y/o, Centus Serpents

(Cosumar)
It's not that Adam Vadimenko isn't good; it's just that he's tired of always being on loan from Sheriff Tiraspol. In fact, he spent three years on loan with Rosenpfelblatz North End in Abanhfleft! He did manage to break into the Sheriff first team when he was 25 years old but by then, he had already had enough of Sheriff and decided to strike out for greener pastures. Vadimenko's main ability is to make the last-ditch tackle that can stop an opponent from scoring, but a problem that has remained with him since his first appearance for Sheriff is that his tackles are almost like a hit-or-miss; one moment, he saves his team from otherwise clear-cut goalscoring chances by the opponents and other times, he's on the ground quicker than anyone else and is therefore left behind in the dust, and the opponents score anyway.

RM: Mark Ilyich POLZIN 29 y/o, Deschutes FC

(Dunnes)
Mark Polzin has been in the Pridnestrovian national team ever since they made their first appearance in international football in the 58th Baptism of Fire in Mizuyuki and the Equestrian States, thanks to his impressive performances for Elektrik Admiralnaya, almost singlehandedly bringing them up to the Pridnestrovian Super League for the first time in over 30 years by himself. Of course, that was when he played as the deep midfielder who could pick out passes to his teammates in the final third. But when he was deployed more as a ball-winning midfielder, added to the fact that the upper-tier management of Elektrik seemed content to keep fighting against relegation season after season, Polzin decided that perhaps it was time to move away from the club that had given him his big break. He eventually earned a move to Nephara's Newrook City but, like a lot of players, was a victim of the ruthless nature of the league and was eventually cut from the team after only a season with them. There are rumors though that he has signed a new contract with another team, this one from the nation of Dunnes, and he hopes to stay there quite a bit longer.

RDM: Demyan Isayevich WASYLYK 33 y/o, Dinamo Bender

Wasylyk plays well for both club and country, and he did score the 20-yard shot that let the Dynamos equalize against Sheriff Tiraspol in the Derby of All Derbies (even though he missed the penalty shot during the Pridnestrovian Cup Final against the same team). He has a penchant for the long shot from outside the box, and he does tend to convert these chances half of the time. Perhaps being a little more clinical in finishing shots and taking chances from inside the box could turn him into a real goalscoring threat.

CDM: Valentin Olegovich FUNAR 34 y/o, Admiral Novorossiysk-na-Dnistr

Funar's calming presence in the center of midfield means that little to no mistakes happen in that part of the pitch whenever he's around. He has a mean tackle and can thunder in shots from long range, sometimes as far as the halfway line, but if he has a weakness, it is that sometimes he can be caught off guard when it comes to going back on defense. He plays well for Admiral Novorossiysk, but many people believe that he deserves a move to another, bigger club. Perhaps his performances in the Copa Rushmori will finally get him a move away from the midtable club.

LDM: Vladislav Branimirovich BOGOMOLOV 34 y/o, Sheriff Tiraspol

, captain
One of the more dependable players in Pridnestrovia's packed defensive midfield, Bogomolov is yet another product of Sheriff's Academy of Football, and this shows in his high defensive output and work rate. Bogomolov will not hesitate to tackle and get physical with opposing players, which means that he has a career filled with bookings and sending offs. Opposing players may try to use this to get Bogomolov sent off, but more times than not, he doesn't need too much encouragement. He's happy and willing to do much of the dirty work himself.

LM: Demyan Georgiyevich PAJARI 28 y/o, Dinamo Bender

Pajari is the second player to be elevated from the bench to the starting lineup following the retirement from international football of his Dinamo teammate Yaroslav Wasylyshyn, who made the decision to hang up his international boots after getting injured in the same friendly against Abanhfleft that also convinced Isidor Petrov to retire from international footy. This isn't to say that Pajari isn't any good. He's got tons of potential, whole bagloads of them, and about the only thing holding him back from realizing this is the fact that he's got two left feet and can't control a long ball to save his life.

CF: Boyan Metodiev RADEV 30 y/o, Marinos Thimpodopoulos

(Fhulghamous Peninsula, playing in the Fleftic Premier League)
Radev's performances in Baptism of Fire 58, World Cup 71 and Cup of Harmony 63 earned him a transfer from Sheriff Tiraspol's bench and into the starting lineup of Marinos Thimpodopoulos, the Fhulghamous-based club that turned into last season's surprise package in the Fleftic Premier League, not only achieving safety within the top flight but also getting up to a 10th place finish, the club's best ever finish to date, which isn't saying much considering that that was the Mariners' first season in the Prem. Radev combined with Pruski international Lukasz Przyborowski and German-born striker Friedemann Aleshire to make Marinos the third-highest scoring team in last season's Premier League, with only Arsenal de Releinthi and Riuwiee United scoring more than the colonial club. Radev is currently on hot form and will look to pass this onto his appearances for the national team.

CF: Karl-Otto Peter SCHERMER 31 y/o, Sporting Ceneisis

(Abanhfleft)

RESERVES
GK: Gavril Konstantinovich KORNEYCHUK 26 y/o, Star City FC

GK: Fyodor Isaakovich EKSTATOV 27 y/o, Fortuna Novonikolaysk

DEF: Aleksey Naftaliyevich KARDASHENKO 28 y/o, Dinamo Bender

DEF: Branislav Aleksandrovich NOCHEVSKI 25 y/o, Chernomorets Bratsk

DEF: Urgan Abramovich SPETSIUK 24 y/o, Sheriff Tiraspol

MID: Vladimir Ustinovich KRUPIN 29 y/o, Kimmirut Panhandle

(Abanhfleft)

MID: Horea Vladislav ANTONESCU 25 y/o, FC Universitatea Vanatori

MID: Mikhail Igorovich NESTERENKO 30 y/o, Dinamo Bender

MID: Yuri Milanov LARIONOV 29 y/o, Vorpommern Nyqvist

MID: Klaus Ludwig KHVASHCHYNSKI 26 y/o, Union Rheinburg

FW: Wilfried Thomas HALBERSTAM 35 y/o, CSKA Tiraspol

FW: Akhmet Magomedovich DAVIDOV 25 y/o, Fortuna Novonikolaysk

STARTING LINEUP

KITS (by Adidulas)

IMPORTANT STATISTICS
Win-loss record: 36-15-38 (penalty shootouts are counted as draws regardless of final result)
First international match: VS Aynard (W 6-0)
First win: VS Aynard (6-0)
First loss: VS Fratton (0-1)
Biggest win: VS Nurkama (9-0)
Biggest loss: VS Pasarga (2-6)

RECORDS
BOF 58: 6-1-2 (lost to The Hakifao Isles in the final)
WC 71: 6-2-6 (fifth in Group 12 of qualifying)
COH 63: 1-1-2 (knocked out by Zenic in round of 16)
CR 22: 1-0-2 (third in Group A)
CR 23: 3-0-3 (knocked out by Saintland in round of 16)
CR 24: 1-0-3 (knocked out by Valladares in round of 16)
WC 75: 6-4-7 (fourth in Group A of finals group stage)
CR 25: 1-0-3 (knocked out by Pasarga in round of 16)
CR 26: 2-0-3 (knocked out by Eastern Sunrise Islands in quarterfinals)
GCoS 2: 4-2-1 (lost to The Redvale in the final)
CR 27: 3-2-3 (lost to Nephara in third place playoff on penalties)
GCoS 3: 6-2-0 (champions, defeated Rhineland Sued in the final)
CR 28: 1-2-1 (lost to Sameba in the Round of 16)
WC 79: 5-0-13 (8th out of 10 teams in Group 1 of qualifiers)
CoH 71: 1-1-2 (4th out of 5 teams in Group F)

SCHEDULE
MD1: Eura vs Pridnestrovia @ Alain Tramontin Stadium, Eterna City, Valladares (cap. est. 60,207) L 1-2
MD2: Pridnestrovia vs Dunnes @ Alain Tramontin Stadium, Eterna City, Valladares (cap. est. 60,207) W 7-0
MD3: Cassadaigua vs Pridnestrovia @ Estádio Estadual Armando Bozzelli, Campo Grande, Valladares (cap. est. 58,259) W 1-0
RO16: Taeshan vs Pridnestrovia @ Estádio Estadual Armando Bozzelli, Campo Grande, Valladares (cap. est. 58,259) W 2-0
QF: Darmen vs Pridnestrovia @ Stade de Foix-Jules Picot, Bezieres, Valladares (cap. est. 63,150)

HOME STADIUM (NEW ARMY STADIUM, TIRASPOL)

New Army Stadium in Tiraspol is the home stadium of CSKA Tiraspol and can comfortably seat over 80,000 spectators following a three-year capacity expansion project.

RP PERMISSIONS
My opponent, if they RP first, may do the following:
Choose my goalscorers: Yes
Godmod scoring events: Yes
RP injuries to my players: Yes (I decide severity)
Godmod injuries to my players: No
Hand out yellow cards to my players: Yes (3 per game)
Hand out red cards to my players: Yes (1 per 2 games)
Godmod other events: Yes (TG me first)

by **Pasarga** » Tue Feb 06, 2018 1:50 pm

Choose my goalscorers Y
Godmod Scoring Events Y
RP injuries to my players N
Godmod injuries to my players N
Hand out Yellow cards to my players Y
Hand out Red cards to my players Y
Godmod Other Events Y

Pasarga Roster
Nickname: Wanderers
Ranking: 16th
Most Caps: Mór Császár (196)
Most Goals: Tobias Möller (96)

Kits

Home Away Third
Modifier: +1

Manager: Mór Császár, age 43
Assistant: Mezei Orbán, age 42

Goalkeepers
GK: Aswad Munif Shalhoub, age 28, OAS Royal FC

GK: Gordana Stanic, age 30, Royal Jam FC

(F)
GK Patrik Horčička, age 32, Baskita FC

Defenders
LB: Juhana Jäntti, age 26, Sardin United (F)
LB: Kristian Friedmann, age 28, IFK Aldenskoett

CB: Wolfgang Wefel, age 26, Sebio City

CB: Þorvaldur Oddsson, age 30, Hellinic Rouge
CB: Ante Ivanec, age 30, RGS Athletic

CB: Ralf Bader, age 20, Baskita FC
CB: Christopher Fosse, age 28, OAS Royal FC

RB: Paul Sommer, age 28, Sardin United
RB: Szilvia Benkó, age 26, VLC FC

(F)

Midfielders
LW: Dominik Krause, age 26, Ulsa

LW: Ognjen Jurkovic, age 30, Olympia FC

MC: Gamal Kadeer Haik, age 26, Stein-los Turkish
MC: Tar Hunor, age 26, AC Izotz Zubia

A/MC: Jörg Feierabend, age 23, CA Paulinthal
MC: Jürgen Eisenhower, age 24, Revolutionaires

RW: Fjóla Sigurjónsdóttir, age 26, Samaj FC

(F)
RW: Davorin Mijatovic, age 30, Dí Maozöxê

Forwards
ST: Ingþór Auðbjörnsson, age 26, AC Izotz Zubia

ST: Alexander Kárpáty, age 23, Mallox

ST:

Neil Nordegraf, age 25, Peynol-Lunas
ST: Taj Zayn Bazzi, age 26, Ausharmuj Marusi

Formation And Tactics

Mór Császár takes the reigns now and not much will really change on the surface, with the former Wanderers' midfielder using what appears to most people as the typical Pasargan 4-4-2, the most common formation played and employed by Pasargan managers. However in his take on the formation, the roles are more defined and the way he plays his two in the center of the midfield actually plays more like a diamond in the middle, though that is likely due to the sheer attacking talent that Feierabend possesses and his preferred playing as a more attacking midfielder. Unlike Tobias who wanted his fullbacks to get up into the attack when possible, Mór wants them to stay back, though he does want his backline to play relatively high and press in the opposition when the squad is out of possession. This allows the wingers to dedicate more into the attack and get good service into the plethora of good attackers who should be ready to convert at a moments notice inside the box.

Captain: Þorvaldur Oddsson
Corner Taker: Fjóla Sigurjónsdóttir
Set Pieces: Jörg Feierabend
Penalties: Ingþór Auðbjörnsson

by **Eura** » Tue Feb 06, 2018 5:12 pm

The Euran Football Association’s 29th Copa Rushmori Squad

Manager: Steve Thompson (62, Eura)

All time Euran record appearance holder Steve Thompson, with 301 caps to his name and 75 goals, was made Euran manager amidst much fanfare ahead of the 20th Copa Rushmori and qualifying section for the 71st World Cup. By beating Tom Benedict, several other former Eura internationals and international candidates to the post, Steve had set himself up with the tough task of helping Eura recover from three consecutive poor performances at World Cup finals. Eura seemed to gain more defensive stability and ruthlessness under Louis Watson in his short spell as Thompson's predecessor, but while they dispatched of the minnows easily they underperformed badly against the higher seeds, and then fell apart in the group stage. Only a deserved draw with Valanora salvaged any pride as the respected but not highly rated Watson bowed out of international management. However Thompson turned things around with a surprisingly good performance at the 20th Copa Rushmori, though once again they came up just short of finally winning it - Eura continues to be perhaps the biggest underachiever in the tournament. His Eura side made it to the final before falling to an unlucky defeat in extra time against Sargossa by the score of 2-1, despite a headed goal from Craig Gilbert.

Many questioned whether or not this form would translate into the World Cup, and Thompson's side proved the doubters wrong. Their initial qualifying charge included a number of good wins including victories over Semarland and Mangolana, interrupted only by a frustrating draw in neighbouring Szavoda. However a loss away to the top seeds Royal Kingdom of Quebec, followed by draws against Semarland and Sandwich Territories, temporarily derailed Eura's qualification hopes. Thankfully Thompson turned it around, and powered on by veteran Skorji Oslograd's goals, they qualified. At the World Cup itself Eura finally broke their chain of group stage embarrassments, beating co-hosts Yttribia and the ever potent Farfadillis; their last game was an ignominious defeat to Star United States but they made it into the next round anyway. In the Round of 16 Eura encountered their qualifying rivals Royal Kingdom of Quebec and proved to be their bane once again, beating them 2-1, before beating Turori in an absolute thriller on penalties. However Eura's surprise advancement into the later stages was ended in the semi-finals by Rushmori rivals Pasarga, the goals of Brigham's Dominik Mauer sinking the Euran's despite Skorji Oslograd's 100th international goal. Eura's performance in the 21st Copa Rushmori was less admirable as they stumbled through the group stage before an undeserved quarter final exit to Taeshan.

The next cycle was met by more outstanding football and more heartbreak while Brigham were having that season at home. Eura blitzed their way to their third World Cup final, living up to the hype that followed the last cycle. They were particularly potent in having the most dangerous goalscoring record of any team, especially given Ashtree's age and Campbell's rawness being the only options up front, and went on a remarkable run of form that culminated in a famous 5-0 semi-final drubbing of Vilita. However Eura's newest nemesis Pasarga stood in the way again and defeated them at the final hurdle in a tight contest, and then knocked Eura out of the Copa Rushmori in the later stages on penalties after Eura had started impressively, and had won a 5-3 thriller against rivals Sameba. After these close misses, Eura were wondering what they have to do to win an international tournament again. Despite this it had been a good time for Eura, at 2nd in the world - their highest ranking - and it is hard to argue that, on paper at least, only Pasarga had claim to be better. However there remained some lurking doubts; Eura's previous two finals produced the same issues of key players about to pass their peak and major changes to the starting lineup, and were followed by a quarter final exit and then several years of mediocrity.

Finally, at the 73rd World Cup, all doubts were erased as Thompson cemented himself as a legend as both a player and coach for Eura by winning the World Cup, making Eura the first country from Rushmore to do it twice. An exceptional squad with an exceptional manager swept away a qualifying group of intermediate difficulty with a 100% record, a first for the Euran national team, before kicking off the World Cup with a memorable 7-3 thrashing of Free Republics. Confident victories against Ceni, Cosumar and Apox followed before a rather overconfident Farfadillis who had just shocked Osarius 5-1, were swept away 6-1 by Kris Campbell and company. After Eura's normal time win streak was ended by a draw against underdogs San Jose Guayabal, which ended with Eura winning a drawn out penalty shootout for the first time in a while, they were set up for a tantalising final clash with Pasarga. Eura, despite their fantastic record, were considered slight underdogs against Pasarga due to the perceived mental barrier Eura had developed against the side from northern Rushmore. Thompson and his team were finally rewarded though for their efforts with a tight but deserved victory over the Pasargan's, after a spectacular campaign including particularly exceptional performances from the likes of Craig Sinclair, Kris Campbell, Craig Gilbert and John Spartan. They followed this up by finally winning the Copa Rushmori, beating Taeshan in New Gelderland.

Unfortunately, Eura failed to defend either of these titles. They were as brilliant as usual on their way to the World Cup but their now ageing defence looked frail, and was exposed against Pasarga in that sensational 6-5 win, as well as in several high scoring victories and draws in qualifying. It all came apart against Nephara, who they had beaten 4-3 in the group stage, by the same margin but in reverse. Then at the Copa, Eura were advancing comfortably on home turf before an inexplicable defeat by the same margin to Polaskaan, which many blamed on an incorrect decision to send off Frank Ainsworth, and two of the visitors goals being from offside positions. It was an anti-climactic and extremely disappointing end to that tournament for Eura and has led to big changes in the Euran squad. It is a Euran team that, on the bright side, is now ranked number one in the international rankings for the first time ever. The challenge for Steve Thompson now is to replace the ageing generation that has taken Eura to heights it has never reached before, with only Kris Campbell, Joel Sutton and Frank Ainsworth remaining young from that group - Waller, Chuchilli and Rogers has retired, while Spartan, Watson, Gilbert, Blackthorn and even Sinclair cannot be around forever. Thankfully Eura have some excellent young stars.

A poor performance struck at the 75th tournament, ending the good run - out at the group stage in embarrasing fashion. Or normally it would be. But the terrible crime committed against Eura by Sameba overwhelmed any thoughts of how we are doing in the football, and led to the Euran FA rearranging the scheduling so that Season 30 would start earlier, continuing the one season per World Cup schedule when they had hoped to abandon it. Oakstone have moved stadium due to pressures on their city. This has left the Euran team, who almost sleepwalked through the Copa straight after the World Cup, in a state of disarray for a short time. High profile retirements such as those of Gareth Blackthorn, Ben Prince, Joe Caffin, Gavin Madison and Mark Rogers struck the team. Craig Gilbert was apparently persuaded to continue only due to an emotional intervention by Steve Thompson. The show had to go on despite difficult times on and off the pitch. Finally, Eura were given some relief by an unexpected triumph at Copa Rushmori 27, where the old guard came in to help the younger generation escape a patchy group stage performance to reach the final. John Spartan scored a tap in to beat Valladares to the title, his third goal in three winning major international finals for Eura. Craig Gilbert finally retired off the back of this.

Eura then shocked the odds again at the 78th World Cup, overcoming a disappointing qualifying performance to fight their way to the final tooth and nail, beating top teams despite what were at times underwhelming and tired defensive performances. It was a testament to Eura's quality that they made it to the final when out of form but they were then struck by the bad fortune of facing another scrappy side in the final, Electrum, who beat Eura 3-1 - our third World Cup final defeat. It was nevertheless another heroic and emotional performance that coincided with a turn of fortunes in the war with Sameba. Craig Sinclair and John Spartan finally retired from international duty with their heads held high and a standing ovation at their exits in the final, another in which Spartan scored although it wasn't a winning goal this time. After a decent Copa showing (reaching the semi-finals) and a two year gap between World Cups rather than one, he continued his project to set up a Euran side built for the future at WC79, overcoming a serious derailing of the qualifying campaign and disappointing home and away defeats to Nephara by marching on to the quarter finals, only to go out unfortunately to a very good Bonesea side. Season 35 of Euraleague is in full swing and Thompson has decided to go with a more youth orientated squad at this CR than he did the last World Cup, but there will be a last run at glory for Kris Campbell, who is rumoured to be close to international retirement.

Assistant Manager: Matt Boyce (62, Eura)

Boyce was a surprise appointment as Thompson’s assistant, having been out of coaching roles for a couple of years. However he has plenty of experience at various clubs and the national team before that and his appointment has been responded to positively. He has played a pivotal role in maintaining Eura’s improvements at the back, while his bubbly personality and reputation as a leader make him a valuable asset in the dressing room. He has been a key ingredient in Thompson's success, and has proven a lot less of a competitor, and more like an assistant, than Dimitri Campbell was to Ben Randall.

Styles and Permission

Style Modifier: +2

My opponent, if they RP first, may do the following:

Choose my goalscorers – YES
Godmod scoring events – YES
RP injuries to my players – YES
Godmod injuries to my players – YES (But only how the injury happens, NOT the extent of the injury)
Hand out yellow cards to my players – YES
Hand out red cards to my players – YES
Godmod other events – YES, provided you keep events within the realms of realism, so no deaths etc.

30 man squad

Shirt number – name – position – age – caps – goals – club
Caps and goals not included currently as stats are out of date by one cycle

Goalkeepers

1 – Robert Griffin – GK – 27 – Sabrefell Moths (Nephara)
13 – Jeffrey Douglas – GK – 31 – Bastion
30 – Kevin Belgrave - GK - 23 - Directus

Defenders

2 – Scott Coles - RB - 26 - Ulsa
3 – Harvey Conway - LB - 30 - Holdenberg
4 – John Leach – CB – 27 – Ulsa
5 – Frank Ainsworth - CB - 33 - Ulsa
15 – Harvey Blake - CB - 23 - Spartangrad
19 – Bryan Butler - CB - 31 - Spartangrad
21 – Ethan Cook – RB – 27 – Directus
23 – Gabriel Harper - LB - 27 - Directus
25 – Charles Roberts - CB - 21 - Bastion
27 – Oliver Murray - CB - 27 - Holdenberg

Midfielders

6 – Sterling Rose - CDM - 33 - Izotz Zubia (Audioslavia)
7 – Oscar Coltrane - AM - 27 - Sabrefell Athletic (Nephara)
8 – Liam Armstrong - CM - 24 - Starling (Nephara)
11 - Tom Robson - CM/LM - 32 - Brigham
12 - Peter Morrison – RM – 33 – Eastweald (Cosumar)
16 – Alex Wyatt - CM - 27 - Revolutionaries
18 – Gael Tobin - CAM - 28 - Falourr
20 – John Talbot - CDM - 26 - Spartangrad
22 – Dominic Miller - LW - 26 - Directus
24 – Harry Gravesen - CM - 24 - Spartangrad
28 – Rhys Griffiths - AM - 21 - Revolutionaries
29 - Anthony Townsend - RM - 23 - Oakstone

Forwards

9 – Kris Campbell - ST - 35 - Ulsa
10 – Dion Underwood - ST - 27 - Bastion
14 – Lofty Jones - CF - 29 - Bastion
17 – Josh Holmes – AM/CF – 27 – Revolutionaries
26 – Dean Sharp - ST - 26 - Directus

Preferred starting lineup

Note; does not take into account suspensions, injuries or any other change. At the end of each RP I post, I will try to give a team for the next match and formation type. If no such lineup is posted, assume that there have been no changes and use the lineup below.

GK - 1. R Griffin
RWB - 2. S Coles
RCB - 4. J Leach
LCB - 5. F Ainsworth
LWB - 3. H Conway
RCM - 8. L Armstrong
LCM - 6. S Rose
RAM - 12. P Morrison
CAM - 7. O Coltrane
LAM - 11. T Robson
ST - 10. D Underwood

Eura are currently experimenting, and may play 4-2-2-2 with Coltrane shifted to the left and Sutton benched for another striker, Underwood

Subs

13. J Douglas
21. E Cook
19. B Butler
23. G Harper
16. A Wyatt
20. J Talbot
28. R Griffiths
9. K Campbell
14. L Jones

Player Roles

Captain: Sterling Rose
Vice Captain: Frank Ainsworth
Direct free kicks: Oscar Coltrane or Peter Morrison
Indirect free kicks: Peter Morrison (Right)
Right corner: Oscar Coltrane (Right footed), Tom Robson (Left footed)
Left corner: Tom Robson (Left footed), Oscar Coltrane (Right footed)
Penalties: 1. Peter Morrison 2. Liam Armstrong 3. Oscar Coltrane 4. Dion Underwood 5. Sterling Rose

Kits

by **Cassadaigua** » Tue Feb 06, 2018 5:23 pm

TEAM CASSADAIGUA- Copa Rushmori 29

Coach-Stephanie Sweeney (48)

Starters in Green
Subs in Blue
Reserves in Red

Goalkeepers:
#21- Lizzie Perkins (26)- Substitute in WC78 and 79
#31- Kelsey Morgan (21)- Starter in DBC 41
#41- Lorena Coulson (26)- International Debut

Defenders:
#22- Lupe Enriquez (19)- Starter in Di Bradini 41, Substitute World Cup 79
#24- Hannah Shanley (22)- Starter and Captain in Di Bradini 41, Substitute World Cup 79
#4- Chelsea Blake (27)- Starter in WC78 and 79, *TEAM CAPTAIN*
#25- Ashley Crocker (22)- Starter in Di Bradini 41
#29- Taylor Young (22)- Substitute in Di Bradini 41
#23- Diana Foster (20)- Substitute in Di Bradini 41
#42- Alanna Morales (25)- International Debut
#43- Steffie Gomez (27)- International Debut

Midfield:
#8- Emma McKee (22)- Reserve World Cup 79, Starter Di Bradini 41
#12- Breanne Rothers (23)- Starter Di Bradini 41
#16- Sierra Mattison (22)- Starter Di Bradini 41
#9- Shelby Martin (22)- Starter Di Bradini 41
#19- Kira Rothers (22)- Substitute Di Bradini 41
#28- Yolanda Castellano (24)- Reserve World Cup 79
#44- Taylor Southwick (23)- International Debut
#45- Serena Lincoln (24)- International Debut

Forwards:
#33- Hannah Ranucci (23) - Starter in WC78 and 79
#27- Caitlyn Mayer (20)- Reserve World Cup 79, Starter in Di Bradini 41
#26- Chelsea Monroe (21)- Reserve World Cup 79, Starter in Di Bradini 41
#37- Sarah Huff (26)- Substitute in WC78 ad 79
#38- Rachel Stover (21)- Substitute Di Bradini 41
#28- Rene Jones (22)- Substitute Di Bradini 41

Team nickname: Fillies. Also, we are commonly referred to as the Dagans
Style Mod: +1

RP Permissions:
Choose my goalscorers: Yes
Godmod scoring events: Yes
RP injuries to my players: Yes but only say they hurt
Godmod injuries to my players: No
Hand out yellow cards to my players: Yes
Hand out red cards to my players: Yes, no more then one more then you give yourself.
Godmod other events: TG idea first. If it fits the theme of my team, I probably will allow it.

Retired Kit Numbers:
#1 is retired in honor of Allison Salamida
#5 is retired in honor of Michelle Fuller
#7 is retired in honor of Shannon Myers
#10 is retired in honor of Brittany Lawton
#11 is retired in honor of Courtney Ferguson
#13 is retired in honor of Meaghan Bateman
#14 is retired in honor of Stacie Kerrigan-Fraser
#15 is retired in honor of Erica Lambert
#17 is retired in honor of Jessica Schanke
#18 is retired in honor of Taylor Connolly

by **Sameba** » Tue Feb 06, 2018 5:25 pm

The 29th Copa Rushmori Squad of the Republic of Sameba

Manager: Fernando Valdez (52, Sameba)

Although there has been much heartbreak for the Sameban nation as perfidious Eura tests the independence of the Republic to its limits, we must rejoice, for Sameba has another opportunity to win the Copa Rushmori! We are led by a hero of the national mission, the excellent Fernando Valdez! He is 52 years of age and an iconic figure in Sameba's footballing heritage, having led the team as captain for many years, accumulating 107 caps and 3 goals. Driven by passion for his country and for the sport, and supported by the Green Army, he has already overseen a new dawn for the national team, free of the treacherous Eura-based fifth column players who deserted us! Glory to Sameba! Indeed, he has already produced excellent results, with Sameba producing one of their best qualifying performances at World Cup 76, almost making the playoffs. They then finished third at the 26th Copa Rushmori, the best performance in the Greens history! Our good form has mostly continued since these tournaments! Onward, comrades!

Note that the following players, who have accumulated many caps, have betrayed the great republic by retiring or boycotting the team:

Fabio Quella,
Michael Sarado
Levi Andetel
Eugene Sabattini
Roman Mayalla
Pablo Dohi
Alan Dabix
Ben Esposito
Julyan Carlevaro
Maurice Arcuri
Artem Giord

Assistant Manager: Seryou Kobe (52, Sameba)

Style Modifier: +5

Permissions
My opponent, if they RP first, may do the following:

Choose my goalscorers – YES
Godmod scoring events – YES
RP injuries to my players – YES
Godmod injuries to my players – YES
Hand out yellow cards to my players – YES
Hand out red cards to my players – YES
Godmod other events – YES

The 25 Man Squad

Shirt number – name – position – age – senior caps – senior goals – club (nation)

Goalkeepers

1 – Berto Fonta - GK - 30 - Samebus
13 – Sova Pardinho - GK - 19 - North Hall (Brenecia)

Defenders

2 – Joshua Giannini - RB - 34 - Winnipeg United (Royal Kingdom of Quebec)
3 – Toni Martel - LB - 21 - Samebus
5 – Dibo Lori – CB – 35 – Samebus
6 – Christian Ducah - LCB - 31 - Samebus
15 – Baston Walther - CB - 24 - AS Russo
19 – Fabio Anderlit - CB - 26 - Millcoci
21 – Lucas Porvare - LB - 25 - Brega
23 – Grejo Caya - RB - 22 - Brega

Midfielders

4 – Pablo Krant - CDM - 30 - Blackfields (Eura)
7 – Santo Zito - LW - 28 - Centralis Heart (Electrum)
8 – Martin Berra – CM – 30 – Lajuno (Eura)
10 – Huele - AM/ST - 34 - KT Moreazerua (Audioslavia)
11 – Agenore Buccho - CAM - 28 - Balleck
12 – Renato Capion - RW - 35 - Avenida Principal (Farfadillis)
16 – Osvaldo Roman - CM - 29 - Olympique Charmat (Gadirya)
18 – Pedro Corrigan - CM - 32 - Selyne Athenians (USI)
20 - Bruno Kass - AM - 27 - Vittorio
24 – Niko Tremenche - CM - 26 - Millcoci

Strikers

9 – Carlos Parvenna - ST - 32 - Samebus
14 – Fernando Torjan - ST - 22 - AS Russo
17 - Damon Piccio - CF - 28 - Brega
22 - Jaq Gallo - ST - 22 - AD Golan

Starting Lineup

GK - 1. B Fonta
RWB - 2. J Giannini
RCB - 5. D Lori
LCB - 6. C Ducah
LWB - 3. T Martel
RCM - 8. M Berra
LCM - 4. P Krant
RAM - 12. R Capion
CAM - 10. Huele
LAM - 7. S Zito
ST - 14. F Torjan

Subs

13. S Pardinho
19. F Anderlit
15. B Walther
21. L Porvare
16. O Roman
18. P Corrigan
11. A Buccho
9. C Parvenna
17. D Piccio

Player Roles

Captain: Huele
Vice Captain: Santo Zito
Direct free kicks: Huele (Right)
Indirect free kicks: Santo Zito (Left)
Right corner: Huele (Either)
Left corner: Huele (Either)
Penalties: Huele, Fernando Torjan, Renato Capion, Martin Berra, Pablo Krant

Kit

Home kit is primary colour green, with blue trim on the shirt and shorts. Away kit is black, with green trim on the shirt and shorts.

Stadium

Normally they play at the Aspel Dellaro, an 85,000 seater stadium in the coastal city of Aspel, as a matter of tradition. However due to the current Eura-Sameba conflict, they will be playing their home games at the Stadio Republica in the capital Samebus, 88,000 seater. No away fans will be permitted from countries considered to be overtly close diplomatically to Eura.

by **Cassadaigua** » Tue Feb 06, 2018 5:32 pm

Better Copa Rushmori This Time, Maybe?
By Hannah Ranucci, Forward

The Copa Rushmori has never been a tournament that we have had much success in. In fact, it is a tournament that we did not even enter on several occasions that we could have while a member of this region. There was a feeling that CASE (Cassadagan Association for Soccer Excellence) was sending teams in the past just to help out with numbers. Players went to the tournament with little fanfare, and came back home without advancing from the group stage. Time and time again, that was our fate. This year did not really start out much different, as even after our Cinderella run to qualify for World Cup 79, only two starters from that team opted to play in the Copa Rushmori. Everyone else has opted to rest up for their own domestic play. That’s understandable, but also part of the reason that we never seem to do much. Our roster this year consists of several players who were a part of the team in World Cup 79, but not in starting roles, and quite a few members of the Di Bradini 41 team that will have aged out from being able to play there again, so the Copa Rushmori is their best chance to prove themselves to CASE, if not to the rest of the world, that they should get more playing time.

Then there is me and Chelsea Blake. We are the only two starters from the World Cup. We have differing reasons, as Chelsea got injured during qualifying, so she still has the desire to show what she can do when she is fully healthy. She was a little less then 100% for several games during the Cup. For myself, I just want to establish myself as more then a great Cassadagan forward. As thrilling as it was to lead the team in goals during qualifying, there is so much more that I want to do. I am young, and I want to continue to put my name out there. I can’t wait to get this rolling!

(OOC: ~~Hannah Ranucci is open to international domestic offers. TG any offers should one of your teams be interested in this 23-year old scoring phenom~~. Hannah has accepted an offer.)

by **Mytanar Region** » Tue Feb 06, 2018 6:03 pm

OFFICIAL PRESS RELEASE - MYTANAR NATIONAL TEAM SQUAD, COPA RUSHMORI XXIX.

Following the success of the Mytanar under-21 squad in Di Bradini Cup 40, Robin Hjik and Lev Repin have continued in their roles as national team manager and assistant manager respectively. Hjik has named his team following the latest Mytanar Top League season. Once again it is a team chosen to represent all of Mytannion, with players from all regions selected and it is hoped that the squad can act as a point of unity for the various peoples of the Mytanar Region.

Historically the Copa Rushmori has been a tournament of the utmost importance to Mytannion, this could be seen in the nation’s victory in Copa Rushmori XVII, where Lev Repin captained the side to a 3-2 victory over old rivals Astograth. It was the biggest moment in Mytanar footballing history and is remembered fondly to this day – even after everything that has occurred in the long time since then. Despite the many differences between people from different parts of Mytannion, the moment Repin lifted the trophy is a popular symbol of Mytanar unity and is regularly referenced as a memory of better times.

Within that team there were representatives of all the different regions: Visoravs, Thessians, Zentrians, Vojoviticans, Magevs, Nastans, Avnali and Rauchik footballers all in the same team. It’s hoped this team can enjoy the same success as they did.

Robin Hjik is, as he was ahead of DBC40, at pains to remind everybody that he will select the best players available: “I’m not bothered where anybody is from, the best players available, as always, will be the ones I send out on the pitch – that is never going to change. We need to get past these stupid conversations about ethnicity and which region you’re from if we’re ever going to return to the prosperity of our past. We can’t do that by pre-judging someone based on where they were born. The war is gone now, it’s time for us to move on and heal our wounds. Football has always been a good unifier and I’m hopeful we can enjoy success and show that ethnicity doesn’t matter that much in the grand scheme of things..”

Lev Repin was also asked about his involvement in Copa Rushmori success all those years ago: “It was truly incredible to be involved in something that big, we never thought that we could do it – especially after Ismet [van Huijgevoort] dying the way he did. But we did it for him and for Mytannion as a whole. It’s true things were not the same back then, but there’s no reason why this team cannot use the current situation as motivation. It’s important that they stand as role models for the general population and be an example of what our society should be like. We’re getting there slowly but surely. I think these boys could accelerate it if they play to their abilities..”

Manager: Robin Hjik
Assistant Manager: Lev Repin

Pos.  2nd Pos.  ##  Name                Age  Club                Caps/Goals  Notes
GK              01  Jasmin Savic        25   Atletik             2/0
GK              12  Adel Gudelj         31   Liria               0/0
GK              23  Pedja Kasun         21   Ararat              1/0         DBC 40 winner

DL              02  Ilija Lambulic      29   Nyva                4/0
DL              13  Tihomir Feric       23   CDSA                0/0

DC              03  Damir Azanovic      29   Crvena Zvezda       4/0         Captain
DC              04  Niksa Obadko        23   Liria               0/0
DC              14  Josip Radonic       30   Atletik             4/0
DC              15  Goran Najdoski      26   Nyva                1/0

DR              05  Petr Isaev          23   Crvena Zvezda       4/0
DR              16  Mario Uzelac        24   Atletik             1/0

DMC             17  Duje Madar          29   Energija-Nuklearna  0/0

MC              06  Grigor Todorov      26   Crvena Zvezda       4/0
MC              07  Tahir Fejzuli       22   Arka                4/0
MC              08  Mateja Stojkovic    26   Ararat              0/0
MC              18  Jeda Mehmedic       26   Liria               1/0

AMC             09  Sime Pandev         34   Nyva                1/0
AMC   MC/ST     19  Olexandr Sokolenko  27   Liria               0/0
AMC             20  Slavko Lalic        25   Energija-Nuklearna  4/0

ST              10  Jezdimir Ocokoljic  19   Crvena Zvezda       4/2         DBC 40 winner
ST              11  Alen Zekic          27   Atletik             4/0
ST              21  Edin Zahovic        27   Liria               0/0
ST              22  Duro Filipovic      28   1896 Ebor           0/0

The team is highly inexperienced at international level, there is no doubt in that, but they have many years of Top League experience under their belts – with a few young talents brought into the squad in the hope that the experience of international football will serve them well as they will likely be here again in the future.

The team are playing the 4-3-1-2 formation that is common across all teams in the Mytanar national set-up. Robin Hjik was highly insistent that one uniform formation and playing style needed to be implemented in order to create a national footballing identity. Historically Mytannion has been renowned for fast-paced, attacking football – often forgoing possession and relying on speed and accurate passing to make their way up the pitch. This is generally the style this team will play too.

The goalkeeper will be Jasmin Savic, fresh off winning the Top League title with Atletik. Some expected Pedja Kasun to be named in the starting eleven, his quality is undeniable (especially after his part in the victory in DBC40), but it is Savic and he will be hopeful of putting a marker down in terms of the quality of his performances to make sure he keeps the starting role. The two centre backs are both comfortable on the ball, Azanovic is perhaps the more well-known of the two but Niksa Obadko is being touted as a future national team captain as his potential is truly outstanding. He could be world class if he continues to improve at the rate he is doing.

In the midfield, Tahir Fejzuli will tend to play the most advanced, he is more creative and better on the ball than Todorov and Stojkovic and will be the fulcrum of the team from his position in the midfield. Todorov and Stojkovic are both box-to-box midfielders and one will sit-in when the team is on the attack in order to protect the centre-backs. When attacking, the two full-backs will push on to provide the team with width: Petr Isaev is better at this than Ilija Lambulic, who is from a slightly different generation of players and perhaps doesn’t have the quality of his predecessors, nor Isaev. Sime Pandev is an experienced presence in behind the strikers and his quality on the ball will make him invaluable in this team, he is known for shooting very quickly after receiving the ball with curled efforts that leave goalkeepers stranded. Whether he will be allowed the time he is allowed in the Top League at international level is questionable – as is his ability to cope with the physical demands at this level.

Jezdimir Ocokoljic was a member of the under-21 squad that won DBC40. He is an exceptional young talent and arguably just a couple of levels below world-class – currently Mytannion’s best kept secret as he’s kept from the prying eyes of foreign clubs. Ocokoljic is nominally a striker but prepared to operate ‘in between the lines’ to find space. He’s excellent with the ball at his feet and boasts top-class shooting as part of his repertoire as well, able to achieve minimal back-lift and always aiming for the corners of the net – a goalkeeper’s worst nightmare. Alongside him is Alen Zekic, a more physical and towering presence, who will be used as if a ‘battering ram’ of an approach is necessary. He’s excellent at putting his body between defenders and the ball and linking the play and is strong in the air.

If Mytannion are in the lead, Duje Madar will be brought on for either one of the midfield three or Pandev in order to play slightly more defensively. If a goal is required, usually the team will continue to operate with two strikers, but will substitute either Zahovic or Filipovic on dependent on which approach is required (Zahovic is more of a poacher, Filipovic is another target man – although that won’t stop Hjik playing him and Zekic together). Along with one or perhaps both of Sokolenko or Lalic. Sokolenko is a bit of a jack-of-all trades, a very versatile player who can play in the middle of the park, in behind the striker or up-front and be equally comfortable in any of the positions. Lalic is a prototypical Mytanar number 10, icy cool in possession and always looking for a killer pass, whilst being completely useless defensively and refusing to contribute when pressing or in tracking back.

by **The Askari Union** » Tue Feb 06, 2018 6:19 pm

THE ASKARI UNION
Preferred Formation: 3-5-2
Style Modifier: 3
Playstyle: ~~Partnerships! The Askari play in tight pairs and emphasise teamwork and physicality!~~ Man fuck that, it's time for S K O R J I B A L L
Kit Supplier: Cloaker
Captain: Carmine Quaglia
Nickname: le Porpore

The Askari are optimists, first and foremost. You kind of have to be to be in a tentatively stable communist-constructivist state, where the economy may be held together by prayer and duct tape and pure fortune is keeping anyone sufficiently malignant from the office of Chancellor, but they've already exceeded expectations time and again by winning points! They'll rely on that same spirit of unity this time around, where they somehow find themselves 13th.

The Legaskari is fairly weak and runs under a fittingly socialist, salary-capped and closed system. As it's only recently professionalised, the standard is really bad (raised by the presence of six foreign journeymen in every team), and most of their best players have left. Dante Marchesi has finally left back to it, and the reigns have passed to, of all people, Skorji Oslograd, who is basically doing whatever the fuck he wants.

I Give My Opponent Permission To:
=================================
Choose My Goalscorers:        Y
Godmod Goalscoring Events:    N
Injure Players:               Y
Godmod Injury Events:         N
Red Card Players:             Y
Yellow Card Players:          Y
Godmod Other Events:          N
=================================

Tactics

First-choice lineup.
The Askari have gained in confidence now, and are now able to play to their strengths. The Askari themselves tend to be smallish and more technically gifted than athletic, but a newfound emphasis on 'getting it up there' has taken over, and big lads from Eura have stabilised the spine of the team. Prior Askari sides have been more defensively focused and with an emphasis on pace, but Oslograd has taken to repeatedly yelling "THE BALL IS ROUND" at athletically-oriented plays in training.

Staff
Manager: Skorji Oslograd (EUR) - Age 48
Asst. Manager: Rhea Fianchetto - Age 33

Legendary Euran striker Skorji Oslograd needs no introduction. He's brought in a young, flashy assistant, Rhea Fianchetto, who serves as much as translator and general adjutant as an actual tactical aide. Importantly, though, she has actual UICA coaching badges - a premium on the island.

Goalkeepers
1 - GK - Pierluigi Cevenni - Age 32 - San Marco Storm (PCR)
12 - GK - Gentian Brillante - Age 28 - AC Sainati
18 - GK - Isolde Gaetjen - Age 23 - SSC Honneur

Cevenni is an excellent reflex stopper more or less baseline capable in all other things. It was enough to leverage his way to a position in the Sunrise Islands, and then to Brenecia, and then Port Christopher. Brillante is a more or less competent stand-in, while Gaetjen is hopefully the goalkeeper of the future.

Defenders
3 - LCB - Carmine Quaglia (c) - Age 32 - Zakhoro Aces (COS)
4 - CB - Joseph Cameron - Age 25 - Marhead (EUR)
5 - CB - Armand Tamboure - Age 28 - Blashpool City (ETN)
13 - CB - Etienne Kosciel - Age 27 - AC Sainati
19 - CB - Lucia Farnese - Age 25 - Stade-National

Defensively, the Askari look a touch nervy. Carmine Quaglia's been here from the start, a stalwart veteran with a good few years in Cosumar under his belt, and the natural leader of the team. Armand Tambore is a hardened destroyer who is carving out a decent line of work in Blashpool, while the rangy, hard-bitten Joseph Cameron knows his way around the Silverleague and allegedly has an Askari grandfather some way back. Kosciel and Farnese are basically just the best young options from the Legaskari, which isn't saying much.

Midfielders
2 - RWB - Cygnet Valeri - Age 23 - Walston Brook Albion (EFL)
6 - HM - Zoe Aucciello - Age 30 - Hussards
8 - LCM - Susaeta Etxeita - Age 24 - Q-Bee Honeyame (HIN)
10 - LWB - Aurora Solignac - Age 23 - Fevelo Colony (COS)
11 - LCM - Gratien Accorsi - Age 27 - Stade-National
14 - RCM - Lethe Cirvante - Age 24 - Keenan Athletic (COS)
16 - LWB - Eloisa Primavera - Age 25 - New Llama Capitals (SLL)
17 - RWB - Cymbeline Sastra - Age 26 - SSC Honneur
20 - RCM - Gwenael Bisset - Age 26 - Hussards
23 - HM - Lux Siravoi - Age 23 - New Llama Stars (SLL)

Something of a shakeup in the midfield unit this Copa Rushmori with Oslograd's switch of systems. It will mean that Solignac is finally free to play in her favoured left wingback position, though this comes at the price of knocking Eloisa Primavera, another of their best players, out of the starting position. In reality, the two diminutive, lightning-quick wingbacks will likely rotate. Valeri on the right is a similar sort of player without the same kind of backup. The core looks decent, with young, exciting technical midfielders in Cirvante and Etxeita taking the ball forward while backed up by the intelligent, classy anchor Siravoi. Their main issue? Size. It is a small, lithe midfield. The Legaskari representatives have some experience at international level, and have mostly done alright.

Forwards
7 - ST - Magali Quaranta - Age 31 - Centus Serpents (COS)
9 - ST - Sierra Aurtenetxe - Age 26 - Alnio Union (CMT)
15 - ST - Alyx Sabbadin - Age 29 - Hussards
21 - ST - Garrett Ramsey - Age 21 - Harkdown (EUR)
22 - ST - Farina Martinet - Age 27 - Grigio Calcio

Up front, the Askari look better than they've been for a while. Magali Quaranta is a veteran of the national team, an experienced goalscorer who has found her level in the Cosumarite second tier. She has, however, been supplanted as the team's star forward by Sierra Aurtenetxe, who ripped the Legaskari asunder enough to earn a move to Alnio. Both are fast, fairly athletic and good finishers, if rather limited in other aspects. However, Oslograd managed to find another Euran, Garrett Ramsey of third-tier Harkdown, who has... become something of a protege. The dour forward offers a willingness to drop deeper and link up play, and is, to his credit, not letting Oslograd's blatant favouritism get to his head. Sabbadin and Martinet are good counterattacking strikers at Legaskari level, but are unequipped for serious international football.

by **New Gelderland** » Tue Feb 06, 2018 7:12 pm

Purple Rain

Chapter One.

I only wanted to see you / Laughing in the purple rain...

Louis Rhodes strode out of the airport in the Garden City of Valladares, sunglasses covering his eyes. Noticing that he was far ahead of the rest of his teammates, he stopped to smell a rose in one of many bouquets in the surprisingly cheerful promenade leading from the airport to the team bus. A mountain vista surrounded him; the sky was clear and cloudless; mountain peaks covered in snow surrounded them. 'Hurry up, guys,' he told the team.

'We're hurrying!' said Gareth Seabrook, one of the newer faces on the team. 'It's harder to breath through this mountain air,' he continued, panting.

'You're young,' Louis shot back. 'I'm a good ten years older than you, and I'm ahead of you.'

'Shut up, Louis,' said Eliot Horn, the renowned goalkeeper of the team and the goalkeeper of the Gelderlish side Celtic Noviodunum. 'We all know you're the fittest out of all of us, you don't have to brag.'

'I'm sure that if I tried to slap you, you'd duck out of the way,' Louis retorted. 'That's how quick your reflexes are.'

Alec Vale-Endellion just shook his head. 'You old folks, why are you this way?' the sprightly eighteen-year-old asked.

'We're not OLD,' yelled Harry Landis. 'We're just older than you.'

'Who cares?' said Jamie Wolf. 'It's not like we're rolling around in wheelchairs here.'

'Hah,' said Louis. It was good to get the team back together: he remembered the old days when they won the Baptism of Fire, all those years ago, incidentally held right here in Valladares. They truly were young then, in their early twenties and late teens; then, the Gelderlish football website boasted about the young character of the team reflecting the young character of their nation. Now, it limited itself to spouting the benefits of experienced veterans. 'I wish we were young again, and I wish we were more together like this.' For some reason or another, Louis couldn't really put a finger on the answer, the Gelderlish national team had split up eight years prior. They had only reconvened the team this year, for the Copa Rushmori: whether it was for sentimental reasons or not, Louis couldn't say, either. Still, they were together again, and he could take that. 'This brings back so many memories...'

Memories of their Baptism of Fire victory in Bastion flashed before his eyes: the goals conceded, the winning goal, the national anthem, the golden trophy hoisted. What a match - what a day - what a feeling! Nostalgia overtook him, and he paused briefly, caught up in his fantasy.

'Now who's the one holding us back?' wondered Gareth, who was getting on the bus. Louis looked up and jogged to join the team.

'It's nobody. I don't see anybody holding us back.'

The bus revved up its engine and left, and the cool mountain air wafted down through the air conditioning system. Headed to the team's home base in a series of adobe dwellings a couple of klicks away, the bus drove through the center of the city, with a massive fountain in an equally massive plaza. Gardens dotted the city - every time Louis looked out a window, there was a garden.

Rain started to fall on the bus. Purple petals on the roof made it look violet as it streamed down the windows, and Louis stared intently at the purple rain. It might as well have been tears: tears of sorrow, tears of longing, tears of anguish for the missing camaraderie of the national team.

The rain ended, and the sun started to shine. Now the drops of rain represented another type of tears: tears of joy as the team finally reunited after so long away from each other. Some of the old faces were gone, some new faces had arrived, but that was part of what made it worthwhile.

The team started to file out of the bus, in their polyester sweatpants and mesh pullovers. 'Let's do this,' said Louis. 'Let's do this...'